Were sitting down with one of the rising stars of the Canadian Hockey Leaguedefenseman Keshawn Aitcheson. Keshawn has already made waves with his impressive skills on the ice and his leadership off it. From being part of Canadas gold medal-winning U18 team to preparing for the upcoming CHL-USA Prospects Challenge, Keshawns journey is nothing short of inspiring.

But theres more to his story than just stats and highlights. Today, well explore Keshawns early years, the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his career, and what it means to be a role model for the next generation of diverse hockey talent.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

In this episode of My Hockey Hero, were thrilled to bring you the inspiring story of Shamar Moses. Shamar grew up in Scarborough, Ontario, where he honed his skills in minor hockey before becoming a formidable forward in the CHL. His journey from house league to the pros is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and passion. Shamar shares how he balanced hockey with baseball, his transition from defense to forward, and the pivotal moment that COVID helped him "flip the switch" in his training.

We also explore Shamars off-ice experiences, from childhood memories of collecting hockey cards to the thrill of seeing himself on an official CHL card. He reflects on his connection to Hockey Equality and how being part of a supportive community of racialized players has fueled his growth. And just as exciting, Shamar announces a new chapter in his career with his recent trade to North Bay, where he looks forward to making an impact in his draft year.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

In this episode, Dean explores the meaning of representation as he attends the 2024 Memorial Cup in Saginaw, Michigan, where he showcases his black hockey card collection, featuring trailblazing NHL players. The episode includes interviews with fans and hockey enthusiasts who express their admiration for the players and the significance of seeing diverse athletes in the sport.

Dean interviews various attendees, including Lucas from Grand Rapids, who discusses his favorite players and the impact of representation; Dimitri from the Hockey Hall of Fame, who highlights the importance of showcasing diverse players; and Tasha from Flint, who talks about supporting her local team and the importance of representation for her biracial granddaughters.

Fans share their memories of influential players like Willie O'Ree, Giovanni Smith, and P.K. Subban, emphasizing how seeing players who look like them inspires hope and inclusivity in hockey. The episode also touches on the broader impact of diversity on the sport and how representation can inspire future generations of hockey players.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This 2024 Memorial Cup special episode is exciting to welcome Donovan McCoy. Donovan grew up in Belleville, Ontario, and began playing hockey with the Belleville Junior Bulls. He transitioned to triple-A level, and Donovan realized he had potential to play at higher levels, being drafted to the Peterborough Petes in 2020. He reflects on the experience of being the first Black captain in Peterborough Petes' history and the responsibilities that came with it including his memorable run with the Petes to the OHL championship and the Memorial Cup.

This episode covers:

Early Life and Hockey Beginnings

• Growing up in Belleville, Ontario.
• Playing minor hockey for Belleville Junior Bulls and Quinte Red Devils.
• Discussing travel for tournaments and camaraderie with teammates.

Influences and Inspirations

• Collecting hockey cards with his brother.
• Inspiration from black players like the Subban brothers.
• Starting to skate at a young age, supported by his dad who worked at the arena.

Realization of Potential

• When Donovan started to believe in his potential to succeed in hockey.
• Discussions with friends about aspirations to play in the OHL.

Junior Hockey Career

• Drafted by the Peterborough Petes in the first round of the 2020 OHL draft.
• Challenges and experiences during his first camp with the team.
• Becoming the first black captain in the history of the Peterborough Petes.

Achievements and Highlights

• Scoring his first goal and significant moments in his career.
• The impact of being a leader and mentor to younger players.
• Celebrating team successes, including an OHL championship and playing in the Memorial Cup.

Reflection on Diversity and Inclusion in Hockey

• Donovans experiences as a black player in a predominantly white sport.
• His efforts to be a role model and connect with the community.
• Optimism about the increasing diversity and inclusivity in hockey at all levels.

Key Takeaways

• The importance of representation and mentorship in sports.
• The evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion in hockey.
• The personal and professional growth that comes with leadership roles.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This 2024 Memorial Cup special episode is exciting to welcome back Peter Worrell, former NHL player who took to the ice for the Florida Panthers and Colorado Avalanche. Peter is one of the few black Canadians to have won the Memorial Cup, an esteemed trophy awarded to the top junior hockey team from Canada and the US. He will talk about his junior hockey career, winning the Memorial Cup in 1997 and the challenges and successes he faced during that time.

In this episode we cover an introduction of Peter Worrell:

• Former NHL player for the Florida Panthers and Colorado Avalanche
• One of the few black Canadians to have won the Memorial Cup
• Discussion on his junior hockey career, winning the Memorial Cup in 1997, and the challenges he faced

Peter Worrell's Early Life and Hockey Beginnings:

• Born in Pierrefonds, Montreal on August 18, 1977
• Family background: Parents from Barbados, moved to Montreal when Peter was three
• Early introduction to hockey with his brother and cousin

Junior Hockey Career Highlights:

• Played for the Hull Olympiques
• Won QMJHL Championships in 1994 and 1996
• Totalled 464 penalty minutes during the 1995 season, the fifth highest in league history
• Improved to 63 points in 62 games in his final junior year

Memorial Cup Experiences:

• 1997 Memorial Cup win with Hull Olympiques
• Description of the preparation and challenges faced leading up to the tournament
• Emotional and competitive journey throughout the tournament

Detailed Discussion on Memorial Cup Win:

• Initial surprise and low expectations for the Hull Olympiques
• Overcoming challenges and defeating heavy favorites Beauport and Laval
• Emotional experiences and the importance of team mentality

Reflections on Diversity and Legacy:

• Peter's role as one of the few black players to win the Memorial Cup
• Reflections on the growing diversity in the CHL and the impact on future generations
• Importance of representation and legacy in hockey

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Malcolm Spence, was raised in Burlington Ontario, a 17-year-old forward for Erie of the Ontario Hockey League, who several hockey observers believe has the potential to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

The 17-year-old forward for Erie of the Ontario Hockey League scored on a breakaway with seven seconds remaining in overtime to propel Canada to a 3-2 win against Czechia in the championship game of the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup on Aug. 5.

In this episode Malcom discusses:

Malcolm's Background:

• Raised in Burlington, Ontario.
• Currently in his second season with the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
• Second overall pick in the 2022 OHL draft.
• Expected to be a high draft pick for the 2025 NHL Draft.

Early Hockey Journey:

• Started in Burlington house league, progressing to AAA with Mississauga Senators in the GTHL.
• Reflections on seeing his rookie hockey card and transition into OHL.

Inspirations and Role Models:

• Sidney Crosby and Wayne Simmonds as influential players.
• Family background: mother from Canada (Irish), father from Jamaica.
• Mentors: Grandfather and uncle, both involved in hockey.

Career Highlights:

• Drafted into the OHL, playing first game, and winning gold.
• Describes scoring the overtime goal as a team achievement.

Balancing Hockey and Academics:

• Importance of academics instilled by family.
• Maintaining focus on academics alongside hockey career.

Diversity in Hockey:

• Reflects on experiences of diversity within hockey teams.
• Mentoring and supporting young players through organizations like Hockey Equality.
• Discusses experiences with racism and efforts towards inclusivity.
• Mentoring others to promote inclusivity in hockey.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Originally from Brooklin, ON, Jordan is in his third season with the Owen Sound Attack, after being drafted in 2020 as a 12th Round pick (# 151).

The Jerseys designed by Jordan as both a celebration of diversity within the game and in support of Team Jamaica and the Owen Sound Emancipation Festival.

The black and red jerseys feature a prominent raised, clenched fist symbolizing the fight against racism as well as the empowerment of future generations of Black hockey players. All game-worn and issued jerseys worn by the Attack on Feb. 3 will be auctioned off online through the Attacks DASH auction page, which will be open for bids from Jan. 29 to Feb. 5 at 6 p.m.

In the episode Taos discussed:

NHL Video Game Experience:

• Taos shares his experience of being included in an NHL video game, highlighting the significance of representation in gaming.

Background and Early Hockey Journey:

• Taos talks about growing up in Brooklyn, Ontario, and his experiences learning to skate and play hockey with his father.
• His cultural background, with his grandparents being from Jamaica.

Diversity in Hockey:

• Discussion about the diversity within Tess's hockey teams and his experiences as a minority player in the sport.

Junior Hockey Career:

• Taos shares his journey through junior hockey, including his time with the Central Ontario Wolves and his draft experience with the Owen Sound Attack.

Role Models and Inspirations:

• Taos discusses his hockey role models, including NHL players like P.K. Subban and Wayne Simmonds, as well as local inspirations.
• Taos describes his playing style as a defensive defenseman and shares his goals for improving his offensive skills.
• His leadership role in advocating for diversity and inclusion in hockey.

Initiatives for Black History Month:

• Taos talks about his efforts to raise awareness and celebrate Black History Month through special jerseys and community outreach.
• Mention of the historical significance of black settlers in the Owen Sound region.
• Taos discusses his personal experiences with racism in hockey and the importance of collective action to address racism and promote inclusivity.
• Positive experiences of support and encouragement from teammates and fans in the face of racism.

Community Engagement and Mentorship:

• Taos reflects on his role as a mentor and role model for young black hockey players, emphasizing the importance of representation and support.
• Taos shares memorable moments from his OHL career, including his first goal, and discusses his aspirations of playing in the NHL.

Education and Personal Development:

• Taos talks about balancing hockey with education and his plans for furthering his studies while pursuing his hockey career.
• Taos emphasizes the need for greater diversity in hockey audiences and encourages fans to engage with players from diverse backgrounds.

For CHL new and tickets visit chl.ca

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Black History Month/ African Heritage Month at Brock and the Podcast Learning Network are pleased to present a live recording of My Hockey Hero with host Dean Barnes and guest Tony McKegney.

The Podcast Learning Network is open to all members of the Brock community interested in learning more about podcasting. Undergraduate and graduate students, staff, faculty, and instructors are welcome to join in discussions, share experiences, and learn more about creating and using podcasts. No previous podcast experience is required. Join us throughout the year as you are able. The Podcast Learning Network is funded by the Faculty of Humanities and facilitated by Alison Innes. Sessions are organized in collaboration with the Department of Digital Humanities, Makerspace, and Office of Research Services.

My Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycards

To learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.org

The see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com

Want to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHL

Produced by Podstarter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.