Tennessee State University, poised to become the first historically Black college or university (HBCU) to feature an NCAA Division I men`s hockey program, has announced a revised timeline for its debut. The team is now scheduled to commence play in the 2026-27 season, marking a one-year postponement from the initial plan. TSU disclosed this decision on Thursday.
According to the university, this delay was a collaborative agreement reached with key partners, including the National Hockey League (NHL), the Nashville Predators, and College Hockey Inc., a non-profit entity focused on promoting and supporting Division I hockey among prospective athletes and fans.
Financial support for the program includes a significant $250,000 grant provided by the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth fund, complemented by ongoing assistance from the Nashville Predators organization.
Commenting on the strategic decision, Tennessee State interim president Dwayne Tucker stated, “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.”
Duncan Priestley