The Predators play their home games at Bridgestone Arena, which opened in 1996. It is a state-of-the-art facility that has become a hub for live entertainment in Nashville. The arena has a capacity of over 17,000 fans and is consistently filled with enthusiastic supporters of the Predators. The arena has also hosted many concerts, including performances by Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Bruce Springsteen.
The Predators have had several seasons of success, including their best season in 2017 when they reached the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in their history. Although they were ultimately defeated by the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Predators’ run to the Finals was a remarkable achievement. The team is also known for their unique home games, where fans throw catfish onto the ice as a sign of good luck.
The Predators have had some notable players in their history, including Shea Weber, who was the team’s captain from 2010-2016. Weber was a key player for the Predators and was known for his hard-hitting style of play. Another standout player for the Predators is Pekka Rinne, who has been the team’s starting goaltender since 2008. Rinne has won numerous awards, including the Vezina Trophy, which is given to the NHL’s best goaltender.
The Predators also have a solid farm system, which has produced several NHL talents over the years. One such player is Filip Forsberg, who was acquired from the Washington Capitals in 2013. Forsberg has become one of the Predators’ top forwards and has been a fan favorite since his arrival in Nashville.
In addition to their on-ice success, the Predators have been heavily involved in the Nashville community. The team has made a concerted effort to give back through various charitable initiatives. One such initiative is the 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund, which was established by the Predators to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research.
The Predators have also been active in promoting diversity and inclusion in hockey. In 2019, the team became the first in the NHL to hire a full-time female coach, when they brought on board assistant coach, Lauren Hirschey. This move was praised by many within the hockey world, as it represented an important step forward in the sport’s efforts to be more inclusive.
Overall, the Nashville Predators stand as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together. With their commitment to community involvement and their exciting play on the ice, the Predators have become an integral part of Nashville’s cultural fabric. They continue to inspire fans and players alike, and we look forward to cheering them on for years to come.