Boston Bruins

Boston Bruins

Willie O’Ree Happy to Have Broken Down Barriers for Hockey Players of Color, Says He Knew Bruins Would Win Cup After Second Round

by on Mon, Jul 11, 2011 at 11:02PM


Willie O'Ree opened the door for black hockey players by breaking the color barrier 52 years ago. And now he's been honored alongside some of Boston's other great athletes.

O'Ree was given the Hockey Legacy Award at the 10th annual "The Tradition" at the TD Garden.

The former Bruin, who still gives speeches and helps kids get involved in hockey, said that he knew the B's were going to win the Stanley Cup this season after they got past the second round. He said he still wears his Bruins hat all the time.

O'Ree also discussed not wearing a helmet when he played and the respect that players had for each other back then.

To hear what else O'Ree had to say, including which current Bruin he enjoys watching most, check out the video above.


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