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O'ree joined the Kitchener Canucks of the OHA Junior hockey league
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Willie O'ree was hit with an errant puck during practice resulting in him being 95% blind in his right eye, he would then keep it a secret from both team staff and family in order to continue his career
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on July 18, 1958 the bruins call up O'ree to substitute an injured player making O'ree the first African American to play in the NHL. He received many racist remarks, cheap shots and fights. The Bruins and their fan base were very supportive of him
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O'ree proved himself and kept his spot on the roster. He would play a full season as a full time player with the Boston Bruins
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O'ree was inducted into the new brunswick hall of fame in 1984 for being the first black player in the NHL
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well after finishing his playing career in the minor leagues, O'ree would be appointed director of USA hockey diversity program.
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The Lester Patrick award is given to the player who has given outstanding service to hockey. O'ree would win this award in 2003 for his contributions to the USA hockey youth diversity program
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in 2010, O'ree received the order of Canada award for outstanding service to youth development.
