Herb Carnegie Hockey Hall Of Fame
Hockey is more than just a game for millions of Canadians, it's a way of life. For Herb Carnegie, a black Canadian, hockey was not only a game, but a passion that drove him to become one of the best players in North America. Carnegie's story is one of determination, ambition, and persistence, which earned him a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame despite never playing a single game in the NHL.
Early Years and Struggles
Herbert H. Carnegie was born on November 8, 1919, in Toronto, Canada. Growing up in the Great Depression era was tough for everyone, but for people of color, life was even more difficult. Racism was prevalent in every aspect of society, with black Canadians enduring systemic discrimination and degradation. Despite the obstacles, Herb Carnegie was a bright and ambitious child, who loved sports and excelled in track and field.
Herb discovered his passion for hockey at a young age, when he watched his older brother Ossie play with the Toronto Young Rangers. Skating came naturally to Herb, and he quickly became a skilled player. However, his color was always a barrier to his progress. In those days, the NHL was a segregated league, with no black players allowed. Herb's chances of playing in the NHL were slim to none.
Breaking Barriers and Achieving Excellence
Despite the odds against him, Herb Carnegie continued to hone his skills, playing in various leagues, including the Quebec Provincial League and the New York Rovers. He was a natural center, with excellent skating ability and puck-handling skills. His play was characterized by speed, agility, and finesse, and he quickly became a star player wherever he went.
In 1946, Carnegie was invited to try out for the New York Rangers, becoming the first black player to do so. Unfortunately, he was rejected, not because of his ability, but because of his race. Undeterred, Herb continued to play for various teams in Canada and the US, where he gained a reputation as one of the best players in the game.
The Legacy of Herb Carnegie
Herb Carnegie retired from professional hockey in 1954, but his contribution to the game was far from over. He went on to become a respected coach, mentor, and advocate for young players, especially those from marginalized communities. In 1996, Carnegie was inducted into the Order of Canada, for his outstanding contributions to the development of hockey in Canada. He was also inducted into the Black Hockey and Sports Hall of Fame.
In 2019, Herb Carnegie passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and hope. Despite never playing in the NHL, Herb Carnegie's impact on the game is immeasurable. He broke down barriers, paved the way for future generations of black players, and inspired thousands of young people to pursue their dreams, no matter the odds.
Conclusion
The story of Herb Carnegie is one of courage, determination, and perseverance. He faced incredible obstacles in a society that was designed to keep him down, but he never gave up. His love of the game of hockey fueled his ambition, and he became one of the greatest players of his time. Despite never playing in the NHL, Herb's contribution to the game is undeniable, and his legacy will live on forever. Let us remember Herb Carnegie, not only as a legendary hockey player, but also as a trailblazer and a champion for equality.
