Penguins defenseman P.O. Joseph visits Black youth hockey camp
Hockey is a sport that hasn't always embraced Black players
Hockey is a sport that hasn't always embraced Black players
Hockey is a sport that hasn't always embraced Black players
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman P.O. Joseph surprised kids at the Willie O'Ree Academy, a hockey camp in Butler County designed to encourage young, Black hockey players.
The program is even named for the first Black hockey player.
"The way to the NHL is not easy," Joseph said. "I think it needs more than what you look like, what do you believe in."
Hockey is a sport that hasn't always embraced Black players, so the hockey camp was excited to learn the game from a Pittsburgh Penguin who looks just like them.
"I always looked up to Black athletes growing up," Joseph said. "Growing up in Montreal when P.K. [Subban] was there, I was looking after him for a while, so I hope I can be their P.K. Subban one day."
P.K. Subban is a Black NHL star who influenced Joseph. Joseph admitted it wasn't always easy growing up.
But now, Joseph is continuing O'Ree's legacy, showing that hockey is truly for everyone.