History is being made at Tennessee State University after announcing its plan to have its HBCU ice hockey program. The HBCU hockey program will be announced on June 28 and will host home games and practices at the Bridgestone Arena. TSU will partner with NHL and NHLPA to bring hockey to a collegiate level.
“Tennessee State University, in partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL), National Hockey League Players Association, and the Nashville Predators, invites members of the media to a press conference at Bridgestone Arena to announce a significant milestone: TSU’s groundbreaking initiative as the first Historically Black college and university to introduce ice hockey at the collegiate level.”
In May 2021, College Hockey Inc., in collaboration with the NHL and NHL Players’ Association, offered a feasibility study to see if the HBCU is in good standing to add a men’s or women’s hockey program.
The feasibility study was to ensure TSU would be able to offer scholarships internally, athletic department costs, including the salaries of the coaching staff and supporting staff, and a conference assessment to determine whether the team qualifies to join a college league. The future of TSU’s hockey program seems promising when looking at Arizona State’s University journey to D1 hockey.
HBCUs are working toward offering new athletic programs to their student body, including gymnastics, wrestling, and more. Last year, Fisk University became the first HBCU to offer women’s gymnastics. Morgan State is the only HBCU offering Division I men’s wrestling this Fall, 2023.
