After cutting the ribbon on Sept. 12, the Nashville Predators look forward to the new possibilities the Ford Ice Center will bring to the Nashville area.
The new facility includes two NHL-size rinks, an upstairs party area, a café and a Predators apparel shop. The organization is hoping Ford Ice will provide a place for people to learn how to skate as well as grow the game of hockey in the Nashville area.
“This facility is amazing,” Predators intern Kayla Evans said. “I’m glad the organization had the chance to build this, and I’m excited to see hockey grow because of the Ford Ice Center.”
Olympic Gold figure skater Scott Hamilton will oversee the Hamilton Skating Academy, which will provide classes for all ages to come out to Ford Ice Center and learn how to skate.
Country music singer-songwriter Vince Gill plans to broaden the hockey horizon in Nashville by reaching out to children. The plan is to create a scholarship program funded at Ford Ice Center. The program will be designed to give children the opportunity to play hockey without the hurdles of equipment costs or ice time.
As part of the grand opening, the Predators hosted a rookie tournament. Rookies from the Predators, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning and Boston Bruins played three games each. The tournament provided more preparation for NHL training camp.
Hockey fans can also catch Vanderbilt, Middle Tennessee State University and Sewanee’s club hockey teams playing at Ford Ice Center. The three teams will call the new facility their home rink.
Over 10,000 fans enjoyed the opening weekend. The organization cannot be more excited to see what the future holds for Ford Ice Center and the development of hockey in Nashville.
“Your passion and support provide us the confidence to allow us to introduce even more people to the great game you already know and love,” Predators CEO Jeff Cogen said to the fans during the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The new facility can be the perfect place for a date night or birthday party. Open skate sessions will take place throughout the week, and people can come, rent skates and try their hand at ice-skating.
Visit FordIceCenter.com for all the details on class and open skate times.