NHL Reveals U.S. and Canadian Finalists for Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award

The National Hockey League has announced the six finalists for the 2026 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award, with three from the U.S. and three from Canada. Fans have until May 24 to vote for their favorite nominee at NHL.com/OReeAward. The winners, one in each country, will each receive a $30,000 donation to a charity of their choice, while the remaining four finalists will each receive $10,000.

Steven Thompson of Seattle is the Co-Founder and President of the Seattle Pride Hockey Association. His organization hosts the Seattle Pride Classic, one of the largest annual LGBTQ+ hockey tournaments in the U.S. The event brings together around 300 athletes each year and has become a cornerstone for inclusion and visibility in the hockey world.

Bill Tobias, based in New York, is the Head Coach and Team Manager of the Central Park North Stars. The program serves children and adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Since 2014, the North Stars have connected over 9,000 participants through the American Special Hockey Association. Tobias has created a welcoming environment that emphasizes teamwork and quality of life through hockey.

Kendal Troutman, from Los Angeles, is the Founder and Executive Director of 24 Degrees of Color. The organization focuses on using hockey to empower Black and Latinx youth through mentorship, clinics, and community events. Under Troutman’s leadership, the group has registered more than 1,200 participants in hockey and skating programs.

In Canada, Doug Grandy of Fredericton is the Founder and Coach of the Rink Rebels Female Hockey Organization. The group promotes inclusion and belonging for girls in hockey through community-driven programs. Grandy's work has helped shape confident young athletes who give back to their communities.

Vinnie Matteo of Montreal started Avalanche Kidz, a hockey program for children aged 4 to 13 with autism and developmental challenges. Matteo’s program focuses on skill development and social connections, with classes for both beginners and advanced players. His efforts have created a strong sense of belonging for participants.

Sonny Sekhon, from Edmonton, founded the Punjabi Elite League, a competitive ball hockey program that serves over 200 athletes, half of whom are youth. Sekhon is also active in the South Asian Canada Cup, where he has helped expand opportunities for South Asian athletes in hockey. His advocacy has led to record participation and scholarship signings.

The award is named after Willie O’Ree, who broke the NHL color barrier in 1958. O’Ree’s legacy of inclusion and perseverance is honored through this award. The winners will be announced in June 2026.