Hockey Legends: Willie O'Ree (The Hockey Legends Collection)
The Hockey Legends Collection Series
What’s inside...
This child-friendly biography introduces Willie O’Ree, the first Black athlete to play in the National Hockey League. Beginning with his childhood in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and following his 1958 debut with the Boston Bruins, the book highlights O’Ree’s perseverance in the face of racism, a career-ending eye injury he concealed to keep playing, and his later work as the NHL’s Diversity Ambassador. Period photographs, sidebars, and glossary terms help readers understand both the sport of hockey and the civil-rights context of the 1950s–70s.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Willie Eldon O'Ree
Richard O'Ree
Harry O'Ree
Discussion points
Why did Willie choose to keep playing after losing sight in one eye?
How did teammates and fans react differently to Willie’s presence?
What qualities make someone a good role model in sports?
How can we apply Willie’s message of ‘Hockey is for everyone’ at school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a family timeline of historical firsts across sports.
Watch a hockey highlight together to connect text with real action.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Willie practices tirelessly despite injury and prejudice.
Real-World Application: Keep trying when schoolwork feels difficult.
Example Lesson: Courage to be first
Explanation: He steps onto NHL ice without a prior role model.
Real-World Application: Volunteer for new activities even if no friend has tried them.
Example Lesson: Respect others
Explanation: Willie responds to slurs with skill and composure.
Real-World Application: Speak kindly on the playground and stand up to bullying.
Example Lesson: Share your success
Explanation: He mentors kids after retirement.
Real-World Application: Help younger classmates learn a game or subject you enjoy.