Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award

Description: First awarded in 2017-18, the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award is presented annually “to an individual who – through the game of hockey – has positively impacted his or her community, culture or society.” Since 2022 23, there has been two winners: one in Canada and one in the U.S.

Voting: Fans submit candidates for the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award. In consultation with the NHL and Willie O’Ree, the field is narrowed to six finalists – three in Canada and three in the U.S. The finalists, and ultimate winners, are determined by fan vote and weighted votes from O’Ree, the NHL, Hyundai (for the Canadian award) and Discover (for the U.S. award).

History: The Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award honors former NHL forward Willie O’Ree, who on Jan. 18, 1958, became the first black player to compete in the League. O’Ree, who lost sight in his right eye at a young age, went on to play professional hockey for 21 years. His perseverance is unrivaled, and his impact on the game and the lives of young players still is felt today. For more than two decades, O’Ree has served as the NHL’s Diversity Ambassador, traveling across North America to schools and hockey programs to share his story and experiences as well as to promote messages of inclusion, dedication and confidence. O’Ree has used hockey as a platform to build character and teach life skills, and has used his influence to foster positive values through the sport.

Charitable Donations: Both winners will receive a $25,000 USD prize and the four remaining finalists each will receive a $5,000 USD prize, each of which will be donated to a charity of their respective choice.

2025-26 Winners: Rink Rebels Female Hockey Organization founder and coach Doug Grandy (Fredericton, N.B.) won the 2025‑26 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award presented by Hyundai. The Rink Rebels Female Hockey Organization has expanded access to hockey for girls through a culture rooted in inclusion, encouragement and belonging. It is intentionally community‑driven and is supported by families, volunteers and leaders who share a vision of using hockey to shape confident, young people who give back to their communities. Click here to watch a feature.

Central Park North Stars head coach and general manager Bill Tobias (New York, N.Y.) won the 2025‑26 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award presented by Discover. An ice hockey program for children and adults with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities, Central Park North Stars has given people of all ages and skill levels an opportunity to play hockey in a safe and supportive environment – emphasizing fun through teamwork, social interaction and improving quality of life. The team is part of the American Special Hockey Association (ASHA), which has more than 135 affiliated organizations serving more than 12,000 members. Click here to watch a feature.