What NHL Team Throws Catfish on the Ice? A Deep Dive into a Unique Tradition
The italicized Nashville Predators are the bolded only NHL team widely known for throwing catfish onto the ice as a good luck charm and form of fan celebration, particularly during playoff games.
From Octopus to Catfish: A Brief History of Ice-Throwing
The tradition of throwing objects onto the ice during hockey games dates back much further than the Nashville Predators. The most well-known precursor is the Detroit Red Wings’ octopus-throwing tradition, which originated in 1952 when two brothers threw an octopus onto the ice; its eight tentacles representing the eight wins needed to win the Stanley Cup at that time. The practice caught on and became a signature element of Red Wings fandom. It’s a testament to the passionate connection fans have with their team and their willingness to engage in unconventional displays of support.
How the Catfish Became a Nashville Symbol
The origins of the Nashville catfish tradition are rooted in friendly rivalry and a touch of Southern charm. In 2003, a Predators fan named Chris Lee, inspired by the Red Wings’ octopus tradition, decided to bring a Southern twist to the ritual. He bought a catfish, smuggled it into the arena, and threw it onto the ice. The act resonated with fans, and soon, throwing catfish became a symbol of support for the Predators, blending hockey tradition with local culture.
The Allure of the Aquatic Apex Predator
Why a catfish? The choice of a catfish is a nod to Southern culture and a playful jab at the Red Wings’ octopus. Nashville, being located in the heart of the South, has a strong association with fishing and catfish. Throwing a catfish can be seen as a way of asserting Nashville’s unique identity in the context of the traditionally northern sport of hockey. The catfish also became a humorous and somewhat provocative way to taunt opposing teams and rally the home crowd.
The Logistics of Catfish Chucking
Getting a catfish into a hockey arena undetected takes planning and dedication. Fans have employed various methods, including:
- Wrapping the catfish in newspapers.
- Vacuum-sealing it to minimize odor.
- Hiding it in clothing.
- Enlisting the help of multiple people to sneak pieces in.
The act of throwing the catfish itself is often a spontaneous moment during a break in play, with the goal of getting the slippery fish onto the ice without getting caught by security.
The Consequences and NHL Policy
While throwing catfish has become a beloved tradition for some Predators fans, it’s important to acknowledge that it violates NHL policy and arena rules. Fans caught throwing objects onto the ice face penalties, including:
- Ejection from the arena.
- Fines.
- Potential banning from future games.
The NHL and arenas emphasize that throwing objects onto the ice poses safety risks to players and officials. Despite the potential consequences, some fans remain willing to risk it to show their support.
The Catfish and the Predators’ Identity
The catfish has become inextricably linked to the Nashville Predators’ identity. It represents the team’s connection to its Southern roots and its fanbase’s passionate and sometimes unconventional support. The tradition has also generated considerable media attention, helping to raise the Predators’ profile and solidify their place in the NHL landscape. It’s a symbol that distinguishes the team from others and creates a unique game-day experience.
The Future of the Catfish Tradition
The future of the catfish tradition remains uncertain. While it continues to be a symbol of Predators fandom, the risk of penalties and the NHL’s stance against throwing objects onto the ice may lead to its decline. However, the tradition’s deep roots in the team’s history and the fans’ unwavering support suggest that the catfish will remain a part of the Predators’ story for years to come. Whether it continues on the ice or evolves into another form of celebration is yet to be seen.
Comparing Mascot Traditions
| Team | Mascot | Tradition | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Red Wings | Octopus | Throwing octopuses onto the ice. | 1952 Stanley Cup Playoffs |
| Nashville Predators | Catfish | Throwing catfish onto the ice. | 2003 Stanley Cup Playoffs |
| Florida Panthers | Rats | Throwing plastic rats onto the ice. | 1996 Stanley Cup Playoffs |
| Colorado Avalanche | None (unofficial) | Throwing trout onto the ice. | 2001 Stanley Cup Finals (Limited Occurence) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is it called “throwing a catfish”?
The tradition is called “throwing a catfish” because that’s literally what fans do – they italicized throw a dead catfish bolded onto the ice during a hockey game to show support for the Nashville Predators.
Is throwing catfish legal?
italicized No, throwing catfish onto the ice is bolded not legal and violates both NHL policy and arena rules. Fans caught doing so face penalties.
Is it just any catfish?
While technically any catfish could be thrown, italicized most fans use Channel Catfish, as they are relatively easy to obtain in the Nashville area. The size often varies.
Has anyone ever been seriously hurt by a thrown catfish?
There are italicized no reports of anyone being seriously hurt by a thrown catfish. However, the bolded risk of injury to players, officials, or other fans is a primary reason the NHL prohibits the practice.
What do they do with the catfish after it’s thrown?
Arena staff italicized quickly remove the catfish from the ice. They are then bolded disposed of in accordance with arena regulations.
Are there other teams that throw animals on the ice?
Yes, as discussed earlier, the italicized Detroit Red Wings are famous for bolded throwing octopuses. The italicized Florida Panthers have a history of bolded throwing plastic rats.
Is there a specific time to throw the catfish?
italicized There is no set time. Fans typically throw catfish bolded during a stoppage in play to minimize disruption to the game.
Does throwing the catfish actually help the Predators win?
italicized There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that throwing a catfish directly influences the outcome of a hockey game. However, the bolded symbolic act is believed to boost team morale and energize the home crowd.
How much does a catfish cost?
The cost of a catfish can vary depending on the size and where it’s purchased, but typically italicized ranges from $10 to $30. Bolded Considerably more may be needed to vacuum seal it.
How long has the catfish tradition been going on?
The Nashville Predators’ catfish tradition started in italicized 2003, during the team’s playoff run, meaning it has been a fixture for bolded over two decades.
Does the team encourage the catfish throwing?
The italicized Nashville Predators do not officially encourage the practice, as it violates NHL rules. However, they bolded acknowledge and appreciate the passion of their fanbase.
Are there any alternatives to throwing the catfish?
italicized Yes, many fans now bolded wear catfish-themed apparel or bring catfish plush toys to games as a way to show their support without breaking the rules. These items are not thrown on the ice.