My Hockey Hero
Dean Barnes is recognized for his work promoting diversity in hockey, particularly through his initiatives like collecting hockey cards of Black National Hockey League players and hosting the My Hockey Hero podcast. These projects celebrate Black and biracial players' contributions to the sport and aim to inspire younger generations. To see the Black Hockey card collection and learn more go to www.blackhockeycards.com
For his recent project, Dean is collaborating with the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) during the 2024-25 season to host monthly podcast interviews featuring Indigenous and racialized CHL players. This initiative aims to connect with fans, particularly young, multicultural audiences, and strengthen the sport's commitment to inclusivity.
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Podcast
1. Tony McKegney
This week Dean is talking to Tony McKegney. Tony discovered his talent at a young age, seeing his parents passion for hockey and the backyard rink they built as helping foster his rise to NHL glory. He was born in Montreal in 1958 and played 13 seasons in the NHL for the Buffalo Sabres, the Quebec Nordiques, the St. Louis Blues, the New York Rangers, the Minnesota North Stars, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Redwings.
2. Bernie Saunders
This week Dean is talking to Bernie Saunders. Born in Montreal in 1956, Bernie grew up sharing a passion for hockey with his brother John. Experiencing racism on and off the ice, Bernie persevered to become a star of junior and college hockey. Eventually playing at the NHL level for the Quebec Nordiques in 1979. Packing a parachute, Bernie's focus on education paid off. His life after hockey led to an exciting chapter in business.
3. Darren Lowe
Darren Lowe was born in Toronto in 1960. He played 8 games in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 1983–84 season and 67 games for the Canadian national team including the 1984 Winter Olympics. After leaving the ice he pursued a long and celebrated career coaching the men's hockey team at the University of Toronto.
4. Ray Neufeld
Ray Neufeld was born in Winkler, Manitoba in 1959. He played 11 seasons in the NHL for the Hartford Whalers, the Winnipeg Jets and the Boston Bruins between 1979 and 1990.
5. Anthony Stewart
Anthony Stewart was born in LaSalle, Quebec in 1985. He overcame child poverty and excelled at hockey with the support of his community. He played 6 seasons in the NHL for the Florida Panthers, Atlanta Thrashers and the Carlina Hurricanes.
6. Darren Banks
Darren Banks was born in Toronto, in 1966. Known as an enforcer, he was a fearless player. Darren played in 20 NHL games with the Boston Bruins between 1992 and 1994.