People, Locations, Episodes

Sat, 01.18.1958

The National Hockey League Integrates

Willie O'Ree

On this date in 1958, Willie O’Ree became the first Black man to play in the National Hockey League (NHL).

O’Ree played for the Boston Bruins during the 1957-58 seasons and retired from professional hockey in 1980. Honoring his pioneering spirit the NHL created the Willie O’Ree All-Star Game that is held every year at the Junior World Championships.

To become a Professional Athlete

New Poem Each Day

Poetry Corner

Though slavery's dead, yet there remains A work for those from whom the chains Today are falling one by one; Nor should they deem their labor done, Nor shrink the task, however hard, While... THE PROGRESS OF LIBERTY by James Bell
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