Who was the first coloured player to play in NHL? And why was his jersey retired by the Bruins?

Who was the first coloured player to play in NHL? And why was his jersey retired by the Bruins?

First black player to play in NHL: Willie O'Ree

Fredericton-born Willie O’Ree is the first-ever coloured player to take part in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played as a winger for Boston Bruins for as many as 21 years between 1958 and 1979. 

Meanwhile, the Bruins retired O’Ree’s Bruins jersey before Tuesday’s home game against the Carolina Hurricanes at TD Garden. Interestingly, this coincided with the 64th anniversary of O’Ree’s historic NHL debut in a Boston uniform.

The Boston team even played a tribute video for O’Ree before the legendary NHL player addressed the crowd virtually from his home in San Diego owing to the associated COVID-19 risks that come with a cross-country trip.

FS Video

“To the Bruins fans, I am honoured to have had the pleasure of playing before you. Thank you for your tremendous love and support,” O’Ree said. “This is an unforgettable day. I am overwhelmed and thrilled to be a part of the Bruins, forever.”

“Amazing to have my number retired”

Willie O'Ree
Willie O’Ree

For those who don’t know, the 86-year-old O’Ree was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018 under the “Builder” category, which is defined by “coaching, managerial or executive ability, or ability in another significant off-ice role, sportsmanship, character and contributions to his or her organization or organizations and to the game of hockey in general.”

“To have my number retired and hanging up there in the rafters with so many other great hockey players that have played for the Bruins, it’s just amazing and I’m just thrilled and overwhelmed,” O’Ree said after the ceremony.

https://twitter.com/NHLBruins/status/1483454266312376330

“A trailblazer to say the least, and I’m very happy for him and his family,” said Bruins current head coach Bruce Cassidy. “I think the whole Bruins organization is looking forward to it.”

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