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Smashville loves its Predators.
The rise to popularity of the franchise can be attributed to an unrivaled relationship with the fans, a unique and exciting game day experience, support from celebrities and musicians around the country, and so much more. The city comes alive on game days—and it’s a palpable feeling for the fans and players alike.
“[When I used to come] to Nashville as an opposing coach, you just see that the fans and the involvement in the community and around the arena, it’s one of the most exciting places to play,” says Head Coach John Hynes.
This year, however, the NHL’s Return to Play Plan took the Preds out of Smashville and into Canada. Following months of uncertainty due to the COVID-forced pause of the NHL season, the League slowly began announcing the components of their elaborate plan, which would restart the 2019-20 season. After weeks of quarantining and voluntary small-group workouts followed by a formal training camp, the Preds flew to Edmonton, Alberta to enter the NHL’s “Secure Zone” within the downtown core. As a completely novel experience for the League, players, and fans alike, it was certainly fascinating to follow along with the Preds as they experienced life in the bubble.
Although it would have been much preferred to play in front of 17,000+ Predators fans inside of Bridgestone Arena, coverage from the Secure Zone offered fans a new and fascinating perspective on the Nashville Predators organization—and proved distance is no match for the passion of the Preds fans.
“The most special thing about being a professional sports team in Nashville is undoubtedly the fans,” says Predators President and CEO Sean Henry. “Since the team’s inception in 1998, they have served as the driving force behind the Predators organization and Bridgestone Arena. We cannot thank them enough for their endless support and for making Smashville the Best Sports City in the United States.”