The Columbus Blue Jackets are a professional ice hockey team based in Columbus, Ohio. They are a member of the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL). Founded in 2000, the team is named after the blue jackets worn by Union soldiers during the American Civil War, reflecting the city's history. The Blue Jackets play their home games at the Nationwide Arena, which opened in 2000. The team's colors are navy blue, red, and white, and their mascot is named Benny the Bull. The Blue Jackets have made several playoff appearances, with their most notable success coming in the 2018-2019 season when they reached the second round.