Humboldt Broncos’ coach Darcy Haugan posthumously awarded the NHL’s Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award
Christina Haugan accepted award on husbands’ behalf at the 2018 NHL Awards in Las Vegas on June 20, 2018
Darcy Haugan, the Humboldt Broncos head coach who was one of the sixteen killed in the April 6, 2018 bus tragedy, was posthumously awarded the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award at tonight’s 2018 NHL Awards in Las Vegas.
Darcy’s widow, Christina Haugan, accepted the award on Darcy’s behalf and made a heartfelt acceptance speech on the televised NHL Awards show. In addition, the awards show featured a touching video tribute to the Humboldt Broncos.
“Darcy used the game of hockey, which he was so passionate about, as a tool to help shape young lives,” said Christina Haugan. “He developed a core covenant which was painted on the wall outside the Broncos’ dressing room. It read:”
Family First.
Treat my teammates and coworkers with respect.
Be thankful for the opportunity to wear the Bronco jersey.
Play each game and practise with passion and determination.
Conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity.
Treat all volunteers, billets, sponsors and fans with respect and gratitude.
Understand that we are building foundations for future generations with our words and actions.
Always have hope and believe that everything is possible.
Always give more than you take.
Strive for greatness in all areas of life.
In addition to Christina Haugan, ten of the thirteen survivors from the crash and their families travelled to Las Vegas to attend the awards show. Special thanks to the NHL, Air Canada and Hard Rock Hotel and Casino who generously covered the Broncos’ travel expenses to Las Vegas.
The Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award recognizes an individual who – through the game of hockey – has positively impacted his or her community, culture or society, was presented at the NHL Awards for the first time this year. The award is named in honor of NHL trailblazer Willie O’Ree, who became the first black player in the NHL in 1958 and has spent the last two decades tirelessly working in grassroots hockey to inspire underserved, marginalized and disadvantaged youth to set goals and follow their dreams.
FOR A BEHIND THE SCENES LOOK AT THE HUMBOLDT BRONCOS’ EXPERIENCE AT THE 2018 NHL AWARDS CLICK HERE