by Asher Hirt ’25
December 10, 2024
The 615 is home to a lively professional sports scene that brings fans together for unforgettable experiences. While the MLS season has just wrapped up, the NFL and NHL are in full swing, and the energy from fans cheering on their teams is electric. Yet many people are unaware of the unique stories behind the mascots who bring even more spirit to the games.
Let’s dive into the history and significance of the beloved fan favorites:
Tempo, Nashville SC
Tempo the coyote became Nashville Soccer Club’s official mascot in 2021, inspired by a real-life incident two years earlier at the Music City Center. A coyote unexpectedly wandered into a bathroom in the building, and while it was safely removed, the wild visitor left a lasting impression on Nashvillians. Nashville Soccer Club felt that it would be a perfect fit for the new mascot. Additionally, the name “Tempo” was chosen because it captures Nashville’s large music scene, rhythm, and energy.
Tempo the coyote returns to its birthplace at the Music City Center. (via Nashville SC)
Gnash, Nashville Predators
The history of Gnash, the Nashville Predators’ saber-toothed mascot, dates back to a remarkable discovery in 1971. During construction work at 4th Avenue and Union, an operator unearthed a nine-inch, dagger-like fang belonging to Tennessee’s first-known saber-toothed cat, estimated to have lived over 9,000 years ago based on the carbon-dating. The Southeastern Indian Antiquities Survey (SIAS) identified the remains, and the fierce Ice Age predator later became the perfect symbol for the NHL team. When the Predators were founded in 1998, Gnash was born, embodying the strength and tenacity of a creature that once roamed the region. Instead of confining the creature to a life of endless scientific study, they wanted to find a place where he could truly feel at home. The saber-toothed cat needed a space reminiscent of a cave and a habitat with plenty of ice. Bridgestone Arena proved the perfect place to revive the spirit of the saber-toothed cat.
Booster, Nashville Sounds
Booster the Rooster has been the Nashville Sounds’ mascot since 2015, taking over the former mascot Ozzie, when the team moved from Greer Stadium to First Horizon Park. Covered in bright red feathers, Booster represents Nashville’s iconic hot chicken. According to legend, Booster was created when a baseball fell into a fryer filled with chicken, and out came the mascot that everyone loves.
T-Rac, Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are represented by T-Rac, a mischievous raccoon that symbolizes Tennessee’s state animal. T-Rac has been a fan favorite since the Titans were established after moving from Houston to Nashville in 1997 and changing their name from the Oilers to the Titans two years later in 1999. T-Rac has racked up some incredible accomplishments. For instance, earning the honor of attending the Pro Bowl 12 times. According to Titans legend, T-Rac was born in the Parthenon and is a proud graduate of the Tennessee Academy of Fine Arts and Hysteria. T-Rac can be found all around Nashville participating in local events and of course at Nissan Stadium cheering on the team.
