If you had asked me a few months ago about my knowledge of hockey, I probably would have stared at you blankly. Sure, I knew the basics—skates, a puck, and some very intense fans—but beyond that? Not much. Fast forward to today, and I can confidently say that not only do I get hockey, but I’ve also found a new passion, a new team to cheer for, and an experience that will stay with me forever.
As a fall semester intern for the Nashville Predators, I had the rare opportunity to witness firsthand the unwavering dedication that both players and staff bring to the organization. From the ice to the front office, it was clear that the Preds’ commitment to excellence isn’t just about winning games—it’s about creating an experience, a culture, and a community that fans can be proud of.
The People Who Made It All Worthwhile
No great experience is complete without great people, and I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the best. My supervisors, Caitlin Donoghue and Lexi Twiss, were nothing short of phenomenal. Their guidance, patience, and encouragement made every day a learning opportunity, and I can’t wait to see where their careers take them because, trust me, they are going places!
A special shoutout goes to my mentor, Hannah Wehr, whose calm presence and expertise in guest experience and media made such a difference in my professional development. I always felt welcomed and supported, and that’s something I’ll never take for granted. And of course, I have to mention Sydney Wood, my right-hand woman and the best teammate I could’ve asked for. We tackled challenges together, made each other laugh, and turned every workday into something special.
Last but certainly not least, a huge thank you to the incredible Loren Yates—the woman who made it all happen. Loren is truly one of a kind. Her authenticity, kindness, and unmatched work ethic inspired me every single day. I’m beyond grateful to have had the chance to learn from her, and I hope she continues to be the bright light that she is for everyone around her.
The Highlights & The Hustle
My time with the Preds wasn’t just about the people—it was also about the unforgettable moments and hands-on experiences that shaped my semester. I had the chance to work on some amazing events, including the Fangtastic 5K, Opening Night, Hispanic Heritage Night, Star Wars Night, the Rod Wave concert, and the Austin vs. Fisk University basketball game. Each of these events came with its own set of challenges, but they also provided me with invaluable experience in event execution, email marketing, media coordination, and so much more.
Beyond the technical skills, this internship gave me the chance to sit in on meetings, network with influential industry leaders like Sean Henry, Michelle Kennedy, and Dionna Widder, and truly immerse myself in the world of professional sports.
A Hockey Fan Is Born
I walked into this internship unsure of what to expect, but I walked out a true hockey fan. The Nashville Predators organization is more than just a hockey team—it’s a family, a culture, and an experience that sticks with you. If you ask me now who my favorite team is, there’s no hesitation: THE NASHVILLE PREDATORS! And of course, I’ll proudly chant, “It’s all your fault!” right alongside the fans.
This semester was just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. Until then—Go Preds!