Best Buddies

Nashville Predators Captain, Roman Josi, learned about the Best Buddies Program when Barry Trotz was his head coach back in 2011-12, and he's taken an interest ever since. His partnership with the organization has grown over the years and Josi still plays an active role.

As a result, the Smashville Pregame Greeter Program launched in 2016 to provide individuals with physical and/or intellectual disabilities with a rewarding employment experience. Since the program started, the Nashville Predators and Roman Josi have partnered with Best Buddies, Goodwill Industries, Gigi's Playhouse and other non-profit agencies to provide numerous jobs to individuals within their networks as well as host program participants in the high-five line prior to each home Nashville Predators game.

"It's such a great thing; those kids are amazing. They're so much fun to be around, so that really inspired me." Josi said.

KultureCity Sensory Certification

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using their resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs; not just those with Autism. The Nashville Predators and Bridgestone Arena have partnered with KultureCity to make all events in Smashville sensory inclusive. The certification process entailed the staff at the Bridgestone Arena being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads are available to all guests at the arena who may feel overwhelmed by the environment as well as a KultureCity Sensory Room on the Suite Level at Bridgestone Arena.

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