CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Professional arena football officially has a new home: The Nashville Kats, one of arena football’s most recognizable franchises, announced today that Clarksville will host the team’s home games beginning with the 2026 season.
The decision comes after overwhelming community support during the Kats’ playoff appearance at F&M Bank Arena last season, where a sold-out crowd of fans packed the building to cheer the team to victory, according to an F&M Bank Arena news release. Following a successful #KeepTheKats campaign that generated hundreds of season ticket deposits, the organization is now confident that Clarksville is ready to embrace arena football full-time.
“This is a historic day for our franchise and for Clarksville,” Nashville Kats CEO Bobby DeVoursney said. “When we brought a playoff game here last season, the passion and energy from the fans was undeniable. Clarksville showed us it’s more than ready for professional football, and we’re thrilled to officially make this city our home. Together, we’re going to build something special – an arena football atmosphere unlike anything else in Tennessee.”
With this move, F&M Bank Arena is now the host site for Nashville Kats arena football, Red River Spartans hockey (with the Ford Ice Center), and Austin Peay State University basketball.
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“This is an incredible moment for Montgomery County,” Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden said. “Bringing arena football here not only gives our residents and families another exciting entertainment option, but it also strengthens our local downtown district and showcases the energy of our community. We’re proud to welcome the Kats to their new home and look forward to filling F&M Bank Arena with fans to cheer them on!”
The Nashville Kats has been the name of three franchises in the Arena Football League. The first incarnation launched in 1997 and moved to Atlanta in 2002, becoming the original Georgia Force. The second incarnation joined the league as an expansion team in 2005 and lasted two seasons. The third and current incarnation has been playing at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium as part of the 2024 relaunch of the Arena Football League. But after the team saw the response in Clarksville, they’ve decided to move to F&M Bank Arena for the 2026 season.
Get your Kats season tickets
With today’s announcement, the Kats are officially launching their Clarksville season ticket campaign. Fans can secure their spot in history by placing a $26 season ticket deposit, which reserves priority access to seat selection. Season tickets start at $90 based on a five- or six-home game schedule.
Deposits can be made now at KeepTheKats.com. For fans who want to learn more before committing, the site offers a detailed FAQ and an interest form to connect with a sales representative.
For more, go to the F&M Bank Arena website.
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