Tennessee State University is the first historically Black College or University (HBCU) to offer men’s ice hockey.
“Today is a historic day as Tennessee State University collaborates with the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Nashville Predators in an unprecedented partnership,” said Dr. Mikki Allen, TSU Director of Athletics. TSU President Glenda Glover elaborated, “Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and to broaden new interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access.”
One of more than 100 colleges and universities designated as HBCUs, TSU decided to offer club hockey after the university conducted an NHL-funded feasibility study.
Kevin Westgarth, NHL Vice President of Hockey Development & Strategic Collaboration: Welcoming club hockey at a storied HBCU is a meaningful step in the right direction for the sport. It will undoubtedly contribute to the vibrant hockey community and inspire future players.
There is a pent-up demand for college hockey opportunities, too. According to NCAA research, only 12% of boys who play high school hockey go on to play collegiately. So, TSU’s new program offers an opportunity, which pleases Rochelle Popyon, Co-Founder of Black Hockey Mommies. “We want to encourage our kids to go to HBCUs,” Popyon said. Now they will have that chance in Nashville.
The club program will launch this fall, with an upgrade to NCAA Division 1 expected soon thereafter. The team will play home games at one of the Nashville Predators facilities.
