Why Do Nashville Predators Fans Throw Catfish on the Ice?
The tradition of Nashville Predators fans throwing catfish onto the ice is a unique and somewhat bizarre spectacle. It’s rooted in a desire to emulate a rival team’s iconic tradition, albeit with a distinctly Nashville twist. The practice began in 2003 and has since become a symbol of Predators fandom, representing the team’s underdog spirit and the city’s embrace of its hockey team.
Here’s a closer look at why the catfish toss has become such an integral part of the Predators’ identity:
The Origin Story: Detroit Red Wings and Octopi
The Predators’ catfish tradition is directly inspired by the Detroit Red Wings and their longtime custom of throwing octopi onto the ice. According to Wikipedia’s page on Detroit Red Wings traditions, the octopus tradition dates back to 1952, when eight tentacles were seen to represent the eight wins needed to secure the Stanley Cup. While the Red Wings’ tradition is steeped in history, Predators fans sought to create their own symbolic gesture.
Nashville’s Unique Adaptation: The Catfish Cometh
In 2003, a group of Predators fans decided to adapt the Red Wings’ tradition. Given Nashville’s connection to country music and Southern culture, they chose a catfish, a common fish in the region, as their projectile of choice. The first catfish was smuggled into a playoff game against the Detroit Red Wings, and the tradition was born.
Symbolism and Significance
The catfish toss serves several purposes for Predators fans:
- Mimicking the Rival: The initial goal was to poke fun at the Red Wings’ octopus tradition and show that Nashville could create its own memorable hockey tradition.
- Underdog Mentality: As a relatively new hockey market, Nashville embraced the underdog role. The catfish toss became a symbol of the team’s scrappiness and determination.
- Community and Identity: The act of throwing a catfish is a collective experience that unites fans and reinforces their identity as Predators supporters.
- Superstition: Some fans believe the catfish brings good luck to the team.
Challenges and Controversies
The catfish toss isn’t without its challenges. Smuggling a raw fish into a hockey arena can be difficult, and fans have devised creative methods to do so. The NHL has also frowned upon the practice, imposing fines on the team and fans for disrupting play. However, the tradition has persisted, often becoming a point of contention between the league and the Predators fanbase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why catfish specifically?
Catfish are common in Tennessee rivers and lakes, giving the tradition a distinctly Nashville flavor. It was chosen as a Southern alternative to the Red Wings’ octopus.
Is throwing catfish illegal?
Technically, yes. Throwing objects onto the ice is against NHL rules and can result in fines for both the fan and the team.
How do fans sneak catfish into games?
Fans have used various methods, including wrapping the fish in clothing or hiding it in their undergarments. Security has become stricter over the years.
Has anyone been arrested for throwing a catfish?
While it’s rare, fans have been ejected from games and potentially faced minor charges for disrupting play with a catfish.
Does the team support the tradition?
The Predators organization has a complex relationship with the tradition. While they appreciate the fans’ enthusiasm, they also must adhere to NHL rules. They generally discourage the practice but acknowledge its place in team history.
Summary
The Nashville Predators’ catfish toss is a unique and enduring tradition that represents the team’s underdog spirit and the city’s passionate hockey fanbase. Born from a desire to emulate a rival’s tradition, it has evolved into a symbol of community, identity, and superstition. While challenges and controversies persist, the catfish remains an iconic part of the Predators’ story.
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