The NHL has recognized outstanding off-ice contributions with one of its annual awards.
As announced by the league on Friday, Dr. Sarah Dunkel-Jackson has been named the U.S. recipient of the Willie O`Ree Community Hero Award. This prestigious award is presented to an individual who has positively impacted their community, culture, or society through the sport of hockey.
Dr. Dunkel-Jackson founded `Hockey Challenge Camp,` an on-ice program specifically designed for children with unique learning abilities and medical needs. Through this initiative, she has developed accessible and adapted hockey programming, enabling more children to experience and enjoy the benefits of playing the sport.
This year`s other U.S. finalists for the award included Toni Gillen, Director of Minnesota Diversified Hockey, which offers programs and equipment for various forms of adaptive hockey including blind hockey, deaf/hard of hearing hockey, special hockey, sledge hockey, and warrior hockey for people of all ages. Also recognized was Andrew Sobotka, former president of the Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA), an organization that provides a safe and inclusive space for close to 100 hockey players to participate year-round.
Willie O`Ree, NHL diversity ambassador, shared his thoughts in a league release:
“One person`s passion can build a stronger community, and Dr. Dunkel-Jackson is proof of that. Her dedication to her community is helping many children learn valuable life skills through hockey. It also assists parents in finding connections and support with other families through a shared love for the game. Congratulations, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson.”
O`Ree holds a significant place in hockey history, becoming the first Black player in the NHL when he debuted for the Boston Bruins on January 18, 1958. Despite losing sight in his right eye at a young age, the native of Fredericton, New Brunswick, went on to have a professional hockey career spanning 21 years.
As the winner, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson will receive a $25,000 prize, which will be donated to a charity of her choice. Gillen and Sobotka will each be awarded $5,000 for a charity of their choosing.
Tristan Blackwood