Tennessee State University (TSU) is inching closer to becoming the first historically Black college or university to have Division I men’s and women’s hockey teams. TSU officials and representatives from other stakeholders, including the Nashville Predators, NHL and College Hockey Inc., met last week to discuss a feasibility study that will determine the next steps in the historic effort, The Athletic reported.
“What we’re taking on is hard. And what we’re taking on is big. And what we’re taking on is what people would say is impossible,” Predators president Sean Henry said. “When we’re successful in pulling this off, it might turn out to be the most transformative step our game has taken in decades and decades and decades.”
After completing the feasibility study, the board will examine various factors, including recruiting, where the teams will play and the cost of the program. TSU and its partners will then determine whether it's possible to move forward.
It's a decision the could mark a significant juncture in the history of sports and in the future of race relations in America.
“I think this can be a huge step,” said Kevin Westgarth, NHL vice president of hockey development and strategic collaboration. “Not only in delivering the access and the chance for a whole new team to play high-level hockey, but for people of color who could be able to go to a school like Tennessee State, a great public HBCU, and then have that hockey experience at the same time is pretty special.”
Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, the first female president of Spelman College, has been one of the key voices advocating to bring hockey to HBCUs. Cole said the initiative is a big part of providing more opportunities for Black students.
“The best word I can use is opportunity,” she said. “You should not be denied opportunities that predominantly white institutions have.”
TSU Director of Athletics, Dr. Mikki Allen, said "the state is filled with talented prospective student-athletes that could build a winning program at Tennessee State University."
"We are extremely excited about the prospect of adding men's and women's ice hockey to our athletics programs," Allen told CNN. "Having the support of the Nashville Predators and the NHL is truly phenomenal and it speaks to the commitment that these two organizations have to growing the game of hockey."
According to a press release from the school, Middle Tennessee has seen the second-highest percentage increase in youth hockey in the US over the last decade.
"Taking this initial step with Tennessee State University, led by their ambitious and visionary leadership, awakens thought on potential playing opportunities, new facilities, and new avenues to watch live hockey, all driven by an HBCU and NHL club in the heart of Nashville. This could be a game-changer," Westgarth said.
The results of the feasibility study are expected to be revealed in the fall.
