Tonight the Nashville Predators will hang their 2016-17 Western Conference Champion banner before the home opener against the Philadelphia Flyers. President and CEO Sean Henry joined ESPN 102.5 The Game’s Braden and Fitz and admitted today is “a little bit more special” than your typical opening day festivities because of the Western Conference Champion celebrations.
“The best part about opening day is, we put that banner up and our players get a chance to celebrate what they did and what they went through. Then the moment the puck drops, it’s over”, Henry said, “But for our guys this year, they get to look at it every day or every morning skate and it reminds all of us we still have more work to do.”
Last season the Predators won their first Western Conference title by defeating the Anaheim Ducks in the Western Conference Final. Nashville endured injuries to key players such as Kevin Fiala and Ryan Johansen en route to their Stanley Cup Finals appearance.
The next step for Henry and the Predators is continuing to expand their fan base to new heights. The Predators ensured they will always have single tickets available by leaving about 4,000 tickets off limits to potential season ticket buyers. This allows the Predators to expose their brand to new unique individuals every night they play in Bridgestone.
Henry noted the importance of doubling their service staff and providing a high quality game experience for every person that attends a game in Smashville.
“Last year we were rated [by ESPN.com] as the best relationship in sports to our fans, and best venue experience. We have to continue that”, Henry stated.
To hear ESPN 102.5 The Game’s full interview with Sean Henry click on the SoundCloud link below.