RECAPS
Willie O’Ree Jersey Retirement
On January 18, 2022, in a touching ceremony, the Bruins retired the number of Willie O'Ree, the first Black NHL player, and honored his work in growing the game.
Pass the Torch Showcase
As part of the Boston Bruins’ Centennial Game celebrations, Willie O'Ree spoke to young hockey players at the Pass the Torch Showcase – hosted by the Bruins, Mass Hockey, Score Boston Hockey, and Hockey East – at Northeastern's Matthews Arena.
SCORE Boston Selected as Recipient of NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund Grant
Longtime partner of the Boston Bruins, SCORE Boston, has been selected as the recipient of a grant under the National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players’ Association Industry Growth Fund (IGF) with additional support from the Boston Bruins Foundation and Rapid7. The grant, which will be awarded throughout the 2024-25 and 2025-26 NHL seasons, will be used to expand and provide operational funding for SCORE Boston’s youth hockey program.
SCORE Boston IGF Grant Recipient
SCORE Boston has been selected as the recipient of a grant under the NHL and NHLPA IGF.
Heritage Hall
Willie O’Ree Display
On January 18, 1958, Willie O'Ree made history when he became the first Black hockey player to skate in an NHL game, playing for the Boston Bruins. Throughout his 21 years as a professional hockey player, O'Ree shattered barriers and inspired generations of young athletes for years to come. Upon retiring from professional hockey, O'Ree became the NHL's Director of Youth Development and an ambassador for the NHL Diversity program. Throughout the month of February, an exhibit featuring photographs, artwork, and articles highlighting O'Ree will be on display in Boston Bruins Heritage Hall.
Resources
Soul On Ice: The Podcast
Hang out with Kwame Damon Mason, Akil Thomas, Elijah Roberts, and their guests as they talk hockey and offer a unique perspective on the game they love, with a little flavor and personality. Mason is the producer and director of Soul on Ice: Past, Present, & Future, Thomas is an LA Kings prospect, and Roberts currently plays for the Toronto Metropolitan University Bold.
NHL Black Hockey History
Take a look at highlights from last season’s Black Hockey History game nights across the League.