First coloured NHL Player Willie O’Ree honoured at “The Tradition” by Boston Sports Museum
Not many people are blessed with a chance to make history when they go somewhere or join a specific organization, but on the other hand, not everyone is Willie O’Ree.
The first black National Hockey League (NHL) player, Willie O’Ree, in history, changed the way the game is played and is continuing to do so at the colourful age of 75.
Born on October 15, 1935, O’Ree became the first African-American to be inducted into a major league hockey team, Boston Bruins, on January 18, 1958, and created history for many today, an idealistic moment.
He was honoured at “The Tradition”, an annual event which has been organized by the Boston Sports Museum for a decade now, with the Hockey Legacy Award on Tuesday, June 28.
Him receiving the award also added him to the list of previous recipients including Milt Schmidt, Harry Sinden, Cam Neely and the whole 1970 Stanley Cup winning team.
Thousands were present at the event to honour O’Ree, most notable, NHL commissioner, Gary Bettman, who made a formal presentation about him in front of the audience.
"Willie is a very special person", Bettman told NHL.com. "Some have called him the Jackie Robinson of hockey. Throughout his life, he has been able to meet the challenges no matter what the adversity to overcome".
O’Ree might have played in the NHL for only two seasons with Boston Bruins, but it was more than enough to make an impact on all those around him.
Due to blindness issues, O’Ree was caught in problems that caused him to leave the NHL in the end, but continued his passion for hockey in the minor leagues.
He continued to play with Los Angeles Blades of the Western Hockey League (WHL), San Diego Gulls and a number of other franchises until finally ending his career in 1979.
Now, O’Ree is focused on brining the coloured community more into the game, as he spreads awareness to children and teenagers all around the country.
"I've gotten to know Willie over the past two decades while he's been working with us", Bettman said. "He works with children to instill the values that our game presents of discipline and hard work – and teamwork. He's an inspiration to anyone he comes in contact with. But he has given so much back to the game".
Currently, O’Ree is working with the Boston organization and does what he does best, that is talk about hockey.
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