Predators mascot GNASH takes time out from the game to say hello to a fan during a "Taking Hockey to the Streets" visit to Thompson Station on May 22, 2007.

Despite the warm weather, the Cherry Grove subdivision in Thompson Station showed up in full force to participate in a Predators' Taking Hockey to the Streets pick-up game on May 22. A growing number of visibly excited street hockey enthusiasts filled a neighborhood cul-de-sac to show off their skills to Preds' team mascot GNASH and members of the Preds' Amateur and Youth Hockey staff.  More than 30 neighborhood boys and girls were present to participate in the game and they stuck around afterward for photos and autographs from GNASH.

With the Predators G.O.A.L! Program and Hockey School right around the corner, it was apparent that kids in Middle Tennessee are ready for a long, exciting summer of hockey, both on and off the ice.  Thompson Station was no different, as the neighborhood kids split into two teams and faced off against one another while Preds staff and GNASH joined in. There was no shortage of fun or enthusiasm as street hockey sticks and balls controlled by the youngsters flashed around in a flurry of constant motion.

The surprise appearance was the kickoff to this summer’s Taking Hockey to the Streets campaign. Taking Hockey to the Streets is a program designed to identify local neighborhoods where kids gather to play casual games of street hockey.  The program provides an exciting opportunity for young fans to interact with GNASH, Predators players, coaches, and/or staff.  It also helps to promote membership growth in the sport of hockey at the grassroots level in Middle Tennessee. If street hockey is played in your neighborhood and you would like Taking Hockey to the Streets to schedule a surprise visit, please have an adult contact the Predators Amateur & Youth Hockey Department at (615) 770-2372.

The Predators Street Team will arrive equipped with street hockey nets, sticks, balls, goalie equipment--everything needed for a friendly game.  This offers youngsters the opportunity to sample what it would be like to play hockey.  All equipment used at neighborhood visits has been donated by the National Hockey League through the NHL Street program and the Nashville Predators Street Pride program.  The Street Pride program takes hockey off the ice and onto your streets. For more information, visit the Street Pride page.