Sixty years ago, in 1958, Willie O’Ree of Fredericton became the first black NHL player when he was called up to play for the Boston Bruins.
Since then, he’s been inducted into the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada, but Fredericton MP Matt DeCourcey is calling for another honour to be bestowed on him.
“For his dedication as a builder, I’m sure Frederictonians, New Brunswickers, Canadians and hockey fans around the world would share the view that it is past due time that Willie O’Ree be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame,” says DeCourcey.
As we celebrate Black History Month and the 60th anniversary of his breaking the black colour barrier in the NHL, let’s get Willie O’Ree inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame! @HockeyHallFame @HockeyCanada @NHLBruins #BHM2018 pic.twitter.com/7m4o3BmqQ7
— Matt DeCourcey (@MattDeCourcey) February 2, 2018
DeCourcey says in the 60th anniversary of his breaking of the black colour barrier in professional hockey, we thank Willie for his continued service to the game.
(Photo: New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame)
