We recognize that Black hockey players often face unique circumstances within the hockey community. The Willie O'Ree Academy, presented by DICK'S Sporting Goods, is a training and enrichment program for local Black youth hockey players and their families, intent on advancing the skills of competitive athletes while developing a strong social support network.

Participating players will receive the following, at no cost:

  • Exclusive Willie O'Ree Academy apparel package

  • 8-week off-season training program at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex (8000 Cranberry Springs Dr, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066):

    • Tuesdays, from June 13 through August 8, 2023 (excluding the July 4 holiday)
      • 5:50-6:50pm* on-ice skills session
      • 7:15-8:00pm* off-ice strength & conditioning session
        • times subject to change Instruction from Penguins staff, UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex skills development professionals and training staff
    • Guest appearances from NHL players, coaches and executives

    • Monthly educational programming beginning in September

      • Cultural & Identity Discussions
      • College & Junior Hockey Discussions
      • Sports Psychology Workshops
      • Career Exposure
        • NHL Front Office, Penguins Partner Executives, etc.
      • Social Events
        • Penguins game viewing parties, Meet & Greets with NHL players

      To learn more about Willie O'Ree's playing career, please click here. For questions, please contact [email protected]

      Eligibility Requirements:

      • Open to youth ice hockey players ages 10-17
      • Playing on a team in the Pittsburgh Amateur Hockey League (PAHL) or Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League (PIHL)
      • Must bring and wear full equipment on-ice
      • Must be registered for 2023.24 season with USA Hockey (confirmation number verified)

 

*Registration does not guarantee participation. Registrants will be contacted by June 4 with acceptance. *