Special thanks to TCF for their support and sponsorship of our program.
Detroit Ice Dreams Hockey Association
Celebrating Black History in Hockey
Val James the First African American to Play in the NHL
Valmore “Val” James is an American-born retired NHL professional ice hockey left winger and defenceman who played two seasons for the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL). James was the NHL's first African-American player. James grew up in Hauppauge, New York, and was born in Ocala, Florida. He was the youngest of six siblings. James learned to skate and play ice hockey in Commack, New York, where his father worked as an ice rink manager. After two seasons with the Quebec Remparts in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), James was picked by the Detroit Red Wings in the 16th round, 184th overall, in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft. He never appeared in a regulation game for the Red Wings. [n the late 1970s, he also spent time with the Erie Blades of the Eastern Hockey League (EHL). In the Erie County Field House, home of the Blades, James' proclivity for hip checks gained notoriety. On July 22, 1981, he signed with the Buffalo Sabres. During the 1981–82 NHL season, James made his NHL debut for the Sabres, appearing in seven games. When he debuted in the NHL, James became the first Black American to do so.
House passes bill to award Congressional Gold Medal to Willie O'Ree, the first Black NHL player
HOCKEY DAY IN AMERICA: Detroit Ice Dreams provides hockey in Motor City
Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend!
It is always a blast and an honor to come out to the Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend! We have met new people and built new relationships and most of all we got the chance to meet the person who made it possible for us to be a part of this amazing sport! #hockeyisforeveryone #willieoree #willieoreeskillsweekend
Detroit Ice Dreams Pushing Local Youth
Hockey Is For Everyone Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend! We are excited and honored to be able to give these kids an experience they will remember for a lifetime!
Quick Links
TCF
OneGoal- USA Hockey
Visit WebsiteSpecial thanks to One Goal hockey and USA hockey for supporting our program!
Hockey Is For Everyone
Visit WebsiteThanks to the NHL and and their Hockey is for Everyone program for your continued support
JJ Curan Crane Company
Visit WebsiteSpecial thanks to our sponsor JJ Curran at JJ Curran Crane Company
Street Hockey In The D
Participate In Street Hockey In The D with our founder Jason McCrimmon and The Red Wings Hockey Association!
Detroit Ice Dreams On-Going Fundraising
The Kroger Community Rewards. A percentage of your purchases will go to Detroit Ice Dreams. Our enrollment number is MB849 or you can select enroll and look for Detroit Ice Dreams Hockey Association. Thanks... Every little bit helps our association.
Huge thanks to Jeremy Roenick for autographing a jersey for us this will be a keepsake we hold close and dear for years. #NHL94Legend
