Tennessee State University is preparing to make history by launching the first NCAA Division I men`s hockey program at a historically Black college or university (HBCU). The team is now scheduled to begin competitive play in the 2026-27 season.
The university announced on Thursday that it has opted to postpone the team`s inaugural season by one year compared to its initial plan.
According to the school, this decision was reached through a collaborative effort involving the National Hockey League (NHL), the Nashville Predators organization, and College Hockey Inc., a non-profit entity focused on promoting NCAA Division I hockey to prospective student-athletes and fans.
Support for the pioneering program includes a substantial $250,000 grant provided by the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth fund, along with ongoing assistance from the Nashville Predators.
“Working closely with the NHL and the Predators, we agree that an additional year will provide the program with the time and resources it needs to launch at full strength and with long-term financial success in mind,” stated Dwayne Tucker, Tennessee State`s interim president.
