Predators Launched Stomp Out Cancer Initiative
The Nashville Predators are auctioning patient-designed sneakers to support the 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Nashville Predators Foundation has introduced the Stomp Out Cancer initiative, featuring 42 pairs of custom sneakers decorated by patients at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital. Predators players will wear these shoes during home games, with proceeds from their auctions directed toward pediatric cancer research.
Why it matters
This initiative provides essential funding for pediatric cancer research at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital. By leveraging team visibility, the program aims to bolster the 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund's ongoing efforts to support young patients and their families.
The 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund has raised over $4 million since its creation, while the broader Nashville Predators Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in grants since 1998. The foundation reported raising over $3 million during the 2025 calendar year.
The players
Nashville Predators Foundation
This is the philanthropic arm of the Nashville Predators professional hockey team that focuses on supporting various community initiatives.
Roman Josi
He is a professional hockey player and the team captain for the Nashville Predators who wore the inaugural pair of sneakers for the program.
Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital
Located in Nashville, this facility provides specialized pediatric medical care and is the primary beneficiary of the funds raised by this initiative.
Vans
This is an American manufacturer of skateboarding shoes and apparel that donated the blank footwear for the patient designs.
The details
Patients from Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital provide the designs for blank sneakers donated by Vans. Fans participate in the auctions by texting Preds to 76278 on the nights the shoes are worn by the players.
Timeline
The Nashville Predators Foundation was established in 1998.
The 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund was created in 2013-14.
Roman Josi wore the first pair of shoes on October 3, 2026.
The initiative officially launched on October 12, 2026.
The team played the Vegas Golden Knights on October 13, 2026.
Market Landscape
This program builds upon a long-term philanthropic strategy that has seen the team contribute millions to local health initiatives. It positions the organization as a leader in regional community engagement by directly linking professional sports culture with hospital-based research support.
Local residents can directly support pediatric cancer research by participating in the game-day auctions. Fans simply need to text Preds to 76278 to place a bid on the custom footwear worn by the players.
The takeaway
This collaboration highlights the potential for professional sports organizations to bridge the gap between fan engagement and vital medical research. Residents are encouraged to monitor team schedules to identify future auction opportunities for these unique community-designed items.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts by visiting the Philanthropy section.
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