The National Hockey League recently honored individuals making significant contributions off the ice. Dr. Sarah Dunkel-Jackson was named the recipient of the U.S. Willie O`Ree Community Hero Award. This award is given to someone who has made a positive impact on their community, culture, or society through the sport of hockey, as announced by the league on Friday.
Dr. Dunkel-Jackson founded the `Hockey Challenge Camp,` a program providing accessible and adapted on-ice activities specifically designed for children with unique learning abilities and medical needs. Her initiative ensures that more children can experience the enjoyment and benefits that come from playing hockey.
Other notable finalists for the U.S. award this year included Toni Gillen, who directs Minnesota Diversified Hockey, an organization offering programming and equipment for various adaptive hockey disciplines such as blind hockey, deaf/hard of hearing hockey, special hockey, sledge hockey, and warrior hockey for participants of all ages. Also recognized was Andrew Sobotka, the former president of the Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA), which provides a safe and welcoming environment for nearly 100 players year-round.
“One person’s passion can build a stronger community, and Dr. Dunkel-Jackson is proof of that,” stated NHL diversity ambassador Willie O’Ree in a league press release. “Her dedication to her community is helping many kids learn valuable life skills through hockey. It’s also helping parents find connections and support with other families through a shared love of the game. Congratulations, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson.”
Willie O’Ree made history as the first black player in the NHL when he joined the Boston Bruins on January 18, 1958. Despite losing sight in his right eye at a young age, the Fredericton, New Brunswick native had a professional hockey career spanning 21 years.
As the U.S. award winner, Dr. Dunkel-Jackson will receive a $25,000 prize, which will be donated to a charity of her choice. The other finalists, Toni Gillen and Andrew Sobotka, will each be awarded $5,000 to be donated to their chosen charities.
