First Standing “O”
On April 3, 2008, with 4:30 remaining in the last home and regular season game, the Smashville Standing Ovation debuted. Ahead of the St. Louis Blues 3-2, a TV timeout was taken. The sellout crowd in Nashville took over from there. The Predator fans were on their feet cheering for the entirety of the final TV timeout. Their efforts, along with those of the players, willed the Predators over the Blues, and into the playoffs. That night in the then Sommet Center, Predator fans debuted their signature move, that still continues today. It was at this moment that many realized that Nashville hockey fans were legitimate. This was the Predators first season after almost moving to Canada. Fans bowed up and showed their passion and loyalty all season long, but none more than on this night.
The Smashville Standing O is a tradition that is a driving force in many late game heroics. Players often rave about the ovations, and describe the electric atmosphere that is created. On April 3, 2008, a loud monster was born into Nashville hockey. One that continues to feast on opponents during TV timeouts, to this day.