"When I got asked to do it [drop the puck], I was surprised but it was a huge honor for me to represent for Black History Month for the Caps," he said. "It's been somewhat emotional to be back and see everybody."
Ward feels strongly about trying to change the narrative around racism in the game of hockey. He himself faced many instances of racism during his NHL playing days and is a prominent face for the Hockey is For Everyone movement.
"I think obviously there's a lot of issues that have been going on with hockey especially, and to be here and make awareness has been huge," Ward said. "Obviously racism has been a heavy topic too, so this is just my chance to give back and celebrate Black History Month here."
We look forward to having Joel back in D.C. for more events with our Alumni group in the future.