Nashville, TN – As the program prepares for the 2025-26 season, the Nashville Jr. Predators proudly announce our Boys Tier I (AAA) program structure, coaching staff, and tryout dates.  

 

One significant change for the 2025-26 season is the beginning of the program transition to a full-time Nashville-based model, requiring athletes to attend weekday practices.  Beginning with the 2025-26 season, our 11U (2014), 12U (2013), and 13O (2012) teams will be 100% Nashville-based. Our 16U and 18U will also continue to be Nashville-based as they have been in the past. The 14U (2011) and 15O (2010) teams will remain a regional-based offering for the 2025-26 season. This transition is important in strengthening our program and serving the Nashville hockey community.

 

This season’s coaching staff features full-time, dedicated individuals with diverse backgrounds, ranging from NHL playing experience to grassroots development. With a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars in the coaching world, the program continues its tradition of competing for the Southeastern District Championships and advancing athletes in and beyond the game!

 

Additionally, tryouts for the 2025-26 season will be held in Nashville, TN. 11U, 12U & 13O will tryout over the weekend of April 12-13, 2025 while the 14U, 15O, 16U & 18U teams will be April 25-27, 2025. See below for registration details and register using the links.

Tryout Registration Link: 11U (2014), 12U (2013) & 13O (2012)

Tryout Registration Link: 14U (2011), 15O (2010), 16U (2009) & 18U (2008/2007)

 

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11U (2014) AAA: Zeke Zeier

A Nashville native, Zeke Zeier played AAA hockey for TPH Thunder and spent two seasons in the NAHL before competing at the NCAA Division III level with Bethel University. He has experience in hockey operations, coaching, and player development with the Vegas Golden Knights and their youth organization. This marks Zeke’s second season with the Nashville Jr. Predators.

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12U (2013) AAA: Ike Zeier

Brentwood-raised Ike Zeier brings six years of Nashville Jr. Predators alumni experience. He has achieved a Southeastern District Championship and honed his coaching skills with the Vegas Jr. Golden Knights, where he worked with players from 8U to 18U AAA. Entering his second season with the Nashville Jr. Predators, Ike continues to focus on skill development and team success. 

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13O (2012) AAA: Martin Erat

Martin Erat, a former NHL player with 11 seasons in Nashville, brings his extensive professional hockey experience to the development of young athletes. Known for his dedication and skill, Martin continues to be a valuable asset to the Jr. Predators program. Martin is entering his second season with the Jr. Predators.

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14U (2011) AAA: JP Dumont

A veteran of over 870 NHL games, JP Dumont has been a key figure in Nashville hockey for over 16 years. As the Director of Hockey Operations for the Jr. Predators, JP combines his experience as a player and coach to guide and inspire the next generation of talent. JP is entering his twelfth season with the Jr. Predators.

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15O (2010) AAA: Kevin Muller

Kevin Muller, Tier I Boys Director, brings over two decades of coaching experience, including seven seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite program. Known for his innovative approach, blending hockey and technology, Kevin has developed players who have advanced to elite levels, including the USNTDP, USHL, and NCAA Division I. Kevin is entering his second season with the Jr. Predators.  

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16U (2009) AAA: Michael Berra

With a background that includes scouting and coaching in the USHL and over a decade of youth hockey leadership, Michael Berra has been instrumental in developing top-tier talent. Coach Berra continues to focus on player development and advancement as he enters his fourth season with the Jr. Predators.

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18U (2008/2007) AAA: To Be Announced

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Tryout dates for the 2025-26 Boys Tier I tryouts will take place on the following dates:

 

• April 12-13, 2025
  • Location: FIC-Bellevue 
• April 26-27, 2025
  • Location: FIC-Bellevue

 

 

We are proud of the incredible coaching staff assembled for the upcoming season and are excited to continue to Develop, Impact, and Guide the next generation of Nashville Jr. Predators!  For any questions about tryouts or the Tier I program, please visit our website or contact Kevin Muller (kmuller@jrpredators.com). Go Preds!