My Hockey Hero

On this episode of My Hockey Hero, we celebrate the journey of Hayden Paupanekis, a six-foot-five center from the Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba and draft pick of the Montreal Canadiens (2025 NHL Draft, 4th round, 69th overall). Hayden reflects on learning to skate at five in Winnipeg’s minor hockey system, the support of his family and community, and the pride he takes in being a role model for Indigenous youth.He shares what it was like to be drafted into the WHL by the Spokane Chiefs, the challenges of moving away from home, the impact of his billet family, and adjusting to the business side of junior hockey. Hayden also talks about his offseason training, his experience at the NHL combine in Buffalo, the feedback from Montreal, and his transition to the Kelowna Rockets as they chase the Memorial Cup. We wrap up with rapid-fire questions on his role models, pregame rituals, and advice for young players about hard work and having a growth mindset.blackhockeycards.com

Born and raised in the Cayman Islands, Jaxon Cover took one of the most unconventional paths to major junior hockey. In this episode of My Hockey Hero, Jackson joins Dean to share how roller hockey on a Caribbean island led him all the way to the London Knights and the Canadian Hockey League (CHL).Jaxon reflects on:Discovering roller hockey at age three and representing the Cayman Islands in travel tournaments across the U.S.Moving to Canada at 12, learning ice hockey from scratch at St. Andrew’s College, and his first tryouts with the Aurora Tigers.The coaching and mentorship that propelled him to the U16 York Simcoe team and ultimately being drafted in the 4th round of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection.His first games and first hat trick in the OHL, the challenge of adapting to the size, speed, and physicality of the CHL, and the importance of teammates and mentors like Ben Wilmot.How idols like Sidney Crosby and rising NHL star Macklin Celebrini inspire his work ethic, mindset, and goals for the future.Jaxon also shares his pregame routines, the mental side of dealing with slumps, and offers heartfelt advice for young players chasing big dreams from unlikely places.blackhockeycards.com

Meet Bill Zonnan, the high-octane forward whose relentless drive and inspiring journey are lighting up the hockey world. Growing up in Montreal, Bill overcame setbacks, made his mark in the QMJHL, and has now been drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Off the ice, his story is just as powerful, breaking barriers, building community, and inspiring the next generation. Tune in for an inside look at the passion, resilience, and excitement fuelling Bill’s path to the NHL!For CHL new and tickets visit chl.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced by Podstarter

In this episode, Pavel Mckenzie, a talented left winger currently playing in the CHL, shares his journey from the small town of Cumberland House, Saskatchewan, to playing in the prestigious Canadian Hockey League. Pavel reflects on his early hockey experiences, the support of his family, and his deep connection to his indigenous roots. He opens up about his journey through various leagues, the challenges he faced, and the inspiration he draws from fellow indigenous athletes.For CHL new and tickets visit chl.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced by Podstarter

Were sitting down with one of the rising stars of the Canadian Hockey Leaguedefenseman Kashawn Aitcheson. Kashawn 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, Kashawns 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.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced 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.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced 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 AvalancheOne of the few black Canadians to have won the Memorial CupDiscussion on his junior hockey career, winning the Memorial Cup in 1997, and the challenges he facedPeter Worrell's Early Life and Hockey Beginnings:Born in Pierrefonds, Montreal on August 18, 1977Family background: Parents from Barbados, moved to Montreal when Peter was threeEarly introduction to hockey with his brother and cousinJunior Hockey Career Highlights:Played for the Hull OlympiquesWon QMJHL Championships in 1994 and 1996Totalled 464 penalty minutes during the 1995 season, the fifth highest in league historyImproved to 63 points in 62 games in his final junior yearMemorial Cup Experiences:1997 Memorial Cup win with Hull OlympiquesDescription of the preparation and challenges faced leading up to the tournamentEmotional and competitive journey throughout the tournamentDetailed Discussion on Memorial Cup Win:Initial surprise and low expectations for the Hull OlympiquesOvercoming challenges and defeating heavy favorites Beauport and LavalEmotional experiences and the importance of team mentalityReflections on Diversity and Legacy:Peter's role as one of the few black players to win the Memorial CupReflections on the growing diversity in the CHL and the impact on future generationsImportance of representation and legacy in hockeyFor CHL new and tickets visit chl.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced 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.caTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dean was a guest on Hockey Time Machine, talking about his World Juniors card collection and much more.Watch the full episode here:https://www.youtube.com/live/tEgotdFZI7o?si=qJaDu2xWUjB5wcVLMy Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycardsTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comWant to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHLProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nigel Dawes was born in Winnipeg Manitoba in 1985. He played 212 games in 5 seasons in the National Hockey League for the New York Rangers, Phoenix Coyotes, Calgary Flames, Atlanta Thrashers, and Montreal Canadiens.My Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycardsTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comWant to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHLProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sean Brown was born in Oshawa, Ontario in 1976. Following a successful run in the OHL he moved to the NHL, playing for the Edmonton Oilers, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils and Vancouver Canucks.My Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycardsTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comWant to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHLProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Beckford-Tseu was born in Ontario in 1984. He is goalie who played for St. Louis Blues in the 2007-2008 season. He has also played a long career across the OHL, AHL and ECHL.My Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycardsTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comWant to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHLProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shawn Belle was born in Edmonton in 1985. Hes played for the Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche as well as a career in Europe.My Hockey Hero is proudly supported by eBay Canada. Start your own collection at ebay.ca/hockeycardsTo learn more on how you can help make hockey accessible to all, check out hockeyequality.orgThe see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.comWant to here more? The extended interview can be found at Recognize: Black Heroes of the NHLProduced by Podstarter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.