Black Ice: The Val James Story Audiobook (Free)

The first black American in the NHL tells his story Val James became the first African American player in the NHL when he took to the ice using the Buffalo Sabres in 1982, and in 1987 he became the first black player of any nationality to skate for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Blessed in central Florida, Adam was raised on Long Isle and received his first couple of skates for his 13th birthday. At 16, Adam left home to try out in Canada, where he was the only dark person in junior and, often, in the whole town. While popular for his tough play and winning personality, the teenager confronted racist taunts at opposing arenas, as well as the prejudice continuing at all degrees of the game. In his two NHL stints, Adam described himself as a good team participant and opposition, known for his pugilistic skills. Black Ice may be the untold story of the trail-blazing athlete who endured and overcame discrimination to realize his dreams and become an motivation for future decades.