In June 1997, the 26-team National Hockey League awarded expansion franchises to four cities: Nashville, Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul and Columbus. The Columbus Blue Jackets and Minnesota Wild became the NHL’s 29th and 30th teams when they debuted on the ice during the 2000-01 season.
When the first puck dropped at Nationwide Arena in October 2000, the Blue Jackets made history as the first franchise in the four oldest major sports leagues in North America – NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL – to call Ohio’s capital city home. Since that time, the Blue Jackets have become a much-respected organization in the community, across the state and throughout the NHL.
On the ice, the Blue Jackets have emerged in recent years as one of the most exciting young teams in the National Hockey League. Off the ice, the club has built an impeccable reputation due to its commitment to the community and support of our great city. The Blue Jackets offer an exciting work environment driven by the mission to be world class and professional in everything we do.
