TSU Athletics Kids Day Brings 4,500 Local Students to Campus

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Gentry Center at Tennessee State University buzzed with excitement Thursday as more than 4,500 energetic K-12 students gathered for TSU Athletics Kids Day.

More than 4,500 K-12 students packed the Gentry Center Jan. 15 for TSU Athletics Kids Day at Tennessee State University. (Photo courtesy of Aaron Grayson)

Chants of “TSU! TSU!” echoed throughout the arena as young voices celebrated their growing connection to the university. For many of the students from Metro Nashville Public Schools and charter schools, the event marked their first time stepping onto a college campus. For all, it offered a front-row seat to what it means to be part of the TSU community, sparking early dreams of future college pathways.

As the TSU Lady Tigers women’s basketball team took the court against Morehead State, the atmosphere grew even more electric. The Lady Tigers secured a 70–62 Ohio Valley Conference victory, delivering not only a win but a powerful lesson in community, pride, and ambition.

For more than a decade, the Kids Day initiative has used athletics as a bridge between higher education and the Middle Tennessee community. Each year, thousands of students are welcomed to campus to experience college life through the excitement of TSU Athletics.

Professional sports mascots from across Nashville join TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen during Kids Day at Gentry Center.

“Welcoming more than 4,500 students from Metro Nashville Public Schools to our Kids Day was incredible, and it speaks to the strong partnership between Tennessee State University and MNPS as we continue inspiring future Tigers through moments like our Lady Tigers’ win over Morehead State,” said TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen.

The excitement on the court was matched by the energy in the stands, as the event brought together K-12 students, local bands, and professional sports mascots from across Nashville. Throughout the day, TSU Athletics distributed snacks, T-shirts, and books donated through partnerships with athletics donors, reinforcing the university’s commitment to literacy and student success.

Laila Lancaster lines up for a free throw during the Lady Tigers’ game against Morehead State.

TSU President Dwayne Tucker also attended the event and addressed the crowd at halftime, encouraging students to envision themselves as future TSU Tigers. His message underscored the university’s ongoing efforts to build early college awareness and cultivate the next generation of students, supporters, and alumni.

Krystal Bonner, assistant athletic director of marketing, production, and special events, said the success of Kids Day reflects years of intentional relationship-building across Middle Tennessee.

Members of the Royal Court, including Mister and Miss TSU, recognized during TSU Athletics Kids Day.

“We have worked diligently with the senior team at MNPS and our charter school partners to highlight students at our events, whether it is a dance team, local high school band, or recognizing advanced academic achievement,” Bonner said. “This not only provides exposure to our athletics program but the university as a whole. It attracts local bands, their friends, and their families, and we hope these efforts will lead to future Tigers as well.”

From the chants echoing through the Gentry Center to the lasting memories students carried with them, the day captured the true spirit of Big Blue.