October 16, 1999. That date is the time my other life began. I saw this so-called NHL sport for the first time ever. After watching a bunch of guys on the ice for the first twenty minutes, I knew I was in trouble. I had no clue what was happening. I just knew that I liked the action, skill and intensity. I truly enjoyed watching the guys do something that I cannot. Skate!
My name is Patty Cavanah. I was born in Virginia but I was raised in Anderson County, Tennessee right outside of Oak Ridge. Many people who know me claim that my being raised so close to the nuclear plants in Oak Ridge is the reason I am so off-the-wall today. One hasn’t lived until they glow in the dark.

I left Tennessee at age 16 and went to the dreaded North. My first day of school for my junior year, the only word that I understood was Patty. They all talked too fast. It didn’t take long for me to adjust. I finished high school in Kettering, Ohio.

After high school, I joined the United States Army. That was definitely an experience for a sheltered country girl. About 10 years after getting out of the Army, my husband and I joined the United States Navy Reserves together. The military experience was difficult but I believe made me a better and stronger person for it.

The most exciting thing about being in the United States Navy Reserves was the opportunity to become part of the U. S. Naval Reserves Flag Team. Our team carried a 50’ by 76’ American Flag in opening ceremonies for Super Bowl XIV held in Pasadena, CA; Los Angeles Dodgers Opening Day; the World Championship Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City, OK; Memorial Day Parades and Opening Day at Hollywood Park Race Track. It was an honor and privilege to be part of this team.

I have traveled to 43 of our 50 great United States, and have been to Mexico and Ireland. I love to travel and have been told I know no strangers. I am now divorced and do a lot of traveling with friends.

I have loved sports all my life. I played basketball and softball during of my school years but I have reached the age “that I don’t do that anymore”. I don’t want my body rebelling and making me pay. I have followed baseball and football as a devoted fan. However, on that October Saturday night in 1999, I found a new love. I fell in love with the sport of hockey. I made it a point to learn all I could about the game. I attended Predators University and started watching hockey games on TV. I have grown from knowing nothing about the game to being the one in the office that others come ask questions.

I have adopted the Predators organization. I like what I see in the organization from the owner – to management – to coaches – to players – to the office staff. Each and every person I have had the opportunity of talking to or asking questions of, have been more than happy to assist a newcomer. I am a founding member of the Nashville Predators MOB (mouthy ol’ broads). There are a few of us in my section that cheer, jeer and yell with the rest of the fans.

I found the Predators Pride Booster Club two years ago when I was searching for a group that shared my love of the game of hockey. I am very proud to be a Booster Club member but I am more proud to be a devoted Nashville Predators fan.

Go PREDATORS!