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.

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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 10 through August 5, 2025 (excluding July 1)
- 5:50-6:50 PM on-ice skills session
- 7:10-8:00 PM 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 WillieOReeAcademy@pittsburghpenguins.com.

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 the 2025.26 season with USA Hockey (confirmation number verified)

*Registration does not guarantee participation. Registrants will be contacted by May 31 with acceptance.*