Tennessee governor Phil Bredesen, backed by members of the Our Team coalition, speaks to a crowd of 7,500 at the Predators rally, July 19, 2007 at the Sommet Center.

Thanks to the efforts of Our Team Nashville in partnership with sports radio personality George Plaster and flagship station 104.5 The Zone, a July 19 rally and ticket drive at the Sommet Center drew an estimated 7,500 participants and resulted in 726 full season ticket equivalents purchased.

The 15-hour tickethon, which commenced at 6 a.m. Thursday and lasted well into the night, was considered a significant success. The station and the Our Team coalition set an original goal of 300-500 new season ticket sales, which was attained by midday. The entire event was broadcasted by 104.5, where Zone personalities were joined throughout the drive by local supporters as well as Predators players and coaches.

Predators Audio

Jersey and Ticket Rally (1:00)

Booths throughout the concourse supported various “Save the Predators” movements with proceeds going toward season tickets for charities. Fans were also treated to discount prices at the Predators Pro Shop (as much as 80 percent off for those who purchased a season-ticket plan) and several giveaways courtesy of the Predators' corporate sponsors.

Held from 6-7 p.m., the rally featured the unveiling of the Predators' newly-designed jerseys. Defenseman Ryan Suter and forwards Vernon Fiddler and David Legwand gave fans their first look at the jerseys. Tennessee First Lady Andrea Conte addressed the crowd and was joined on stage by her husband, Governor Phil Bredesen, as well as rally organizers and local business contributors, who spoke and led the raucous crowd in cheers.

The Our Team Nashville coalition is a group of Predator fans, business leaders, and other volunteers who are passionate about Nashville and committed to keeping the Preds in town. The campaign's goal is to help drive Predators season ticket sales within the local business community by personally reaching out to decision-makers within four key business sectors: major corporations, small- and medium-sized businesses, downtown businesses, and the hospitality/tourism industry.

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