Who was the first black NHL player in the Hall of Fame?

Willie O’Ree
Willie O’Ree, the first black hockey player in the NHL, tabbed for Hockey Hall of Fame — The Undefeated.

How old was Willie O’Ree when he joined the NHL?

Try it–we’re cheering you on! O’Ree started playing hockey at age three and organized hockey at age five. He instantly had a passion for the game.

When did Willie O’Ree join the NHL?

1957Boston Bruins
Willie O’Ree/Dates joined

How many games did Willie O’Ree play in the NHL?

45 games
Director of Youth Development O’Ree played 45 games with the Bruins from 1958-61. His long professional career spanned 21 seasons, mostly in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Los Angeles Blades and the San Diego Gulls. O’Ree played his entire professional career blind in one eye.

When did Willie O’Ree retire?

1979
Willie O’Ree/Career end

“After breaking the colour barrier as a Boston Bruin in 1958 and eventually retiring from professional hockey in 1979, Willie became the ultimate ambassador for improving diversity and inclusion within the game of hockey.

Is Willie O’Ree an American citizen?

Willie Eldon O’Ree, CM ONB (born October 15, 1935) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, best known for being the first black player in the National Hockey League (NHL). O’Ree played as a winger for the Boston Bruins….

Where is Willie Oree from?

Fredericton, Canada
Willie O’Ree/Place of birth

How did Willie O’Ree join the NHL?

It came up for sale while Willie was playing junior hockey in 1952. He used his savings to help his parents buy it. Midway through his second season at Quebec, O’Ree was called up to the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League to replace an injured player. He made his NHL debut on Jan.

When did Willie O’Ree stop playing hockey in the NHL?

1958
Bruins retiring jersey of Willie O’Ree, who broke NHL colour barrier in 1958 | CBC Sports.

Was Willie O’Ree married?

Deljeet Kaur Manak O’Ree
Willie O’Ree/Spouse