Everyone knows Rinne is deserving of the honor, and as Henry says, the former netminder is not only one of the best to ever play the game, but one of the best people, too.
"This is celebrating the best Predator ever," Henry said. "He's probably the guy that best personifies what Smashville is more than anyone because of his love for the community and for helping other people and brightening spirits."
With how good Rinne was on the ice, he was an even better person off the ice. During his tenure with the Preds, Rinne's involvement in the community was unmatched and served as a bright light to countless individuals.
"He's just so different, and it's so much more unique," Henry said. "When he got here we were doing hospital visits at the Children's Hospital. Fast forward to today and he is like the breath and life behind the pediatric cancer ward and throughout the hospital."
Coverage for Rinne's jersey retirement on Thursday will begin on Bally Sports South at 5 p.m. CT with Frozen Moments followed by Rinne's retirement ceremony from Bridgestone Arena at 6 p.m.
Then, the Stadium Series celebration is set to kick off this weekend with a lineup of events leading up to the game on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium. With so much anticipation surrounding the game there is something for everyone.
"It's a recognition to our fans," Henry said. "We're not doing a one-day celebration. It is Thursday, Friday and Saturday; just so many fun things, and whether you are a huge hockey fan or not, you're going to have a good time."
Bridgestone Winter Park will be one of many fan-centered experiences happening in Smashville leading up to the Stadium Series. This occasion will be full of live music and entertainment and so much more. Winter Park will kick off at Nashville's Walk of Fame Park on Thursday afternoon before Rinne's retirement ceremony and will have events each day leading up to game time on Saturday.
"It'll be really fun to see how full the park is on Thursday night," Henry said. "Friday we're programming an evening of free concerts and fun and a lot of activities in the park, and obviously you have the attractions up and down Broadway and all the other great attractions Nashville has to offer."
Ultimately, this week provides another opportunity to showcase what Smashville is all about, and Henry can't wait to see the result. This is a week where the Preds can show the country what being a citizen of Smashville is all about.
"You're really just kicking back and enjoying how many people will come out and celebrate the team with us and be proud of what they created," Henry said. "We all share the story of the Preds, and it's really the story of our fans and the connection they have with our players."
Click here to listen to Sean Henry's full interview on Episode 161 of the Preds Official Podcast
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