After hosting two Stanley Cup Final games, Nashville has already become known across North America for its great hockey atmosphere. The game and in-arena experience have made Bridgestone Arena one of the most hype hockey experiences.
The hockey world has taken notice of Nashville. Not only is it now on the map as a hockey town, but it’s Music City – and we know how to throw a great party.
Fans have turned out in the thousands for all the hype, fun and excitement on Lower Broadway. Reporter Jesse Knutson talked to a couple people inside the arena
If you've been to a hockey game, you've heard "Krazy Kyle" Hankins. He’s been the Predators’ organist since 2002. He gets the crowd cheering until they lose their voices.
"What they say is absolutely true. It's very, very loud in this building," he said.
Stationed about 20 rows behind the net, he plays his organ and watches the game closely to know when and what to play.
"You don't play, 'If you're happy and you know it' when you're down 2 to zip. Cause you're not happy, and you know it. I hope you know it," said Hankins.
Across the arena is the in-game host and Gnash's handler, Maverick Whited, who can often be seen on the band stage.
"It's a great spot to just kind of oversee all of Smashville," said Whited.
Maverick is the most seen person inside of Bridgestone other than the players, and his goal is to get the crowd involved, and keep them involved.
"It's very important to just keep focused and keep positive energy, even in games when we're down. I mean, we have to be at our best just keeping the fans engaged and staying behind the team," said Whited.
He has plenty of tactics, including the waving Gnash's flag.
"It definitely works out the entire upper body," said Whited.
Both Whited and Hankins said they want to help the team in any way they can.
Maverick said he anticipated Game 4 to be just as loud in the arena as Game 3.
"People at home are going to have to turn down their TV levels because it's going to be so loud," he said.
