Watch Soul On Ice: Past, Present And Future

Soul On Ice: Past, Present And Future is a documentary film from 2015 that explores the history and evolution of black hockey players in North America. The film is directed by Damon Kwame Mason and features interviews with NHL players, coaches, journalists, and historians. The documentary begins by examining the experiences of black hockey players in the early decades of the 20th century, when segregation and racism were rampant in the sport. We learn about players like Herb Carnegie, who was a star in the Quebec league but was denied the opportunity to play in the NHL because of his race, and Willie O'Ree, who became the first black player to compete in the NHL in 1958. Through archival footage and interviews with historians, we see how these players paved the way for future generations of black hockey players.

We then move on to the 1960s and 70s, a time when more black players began to break into the NHL. The film explores the challenges they faced, both on and off the ice, as they tried to prove themselves in a predominantly white sport. We hear from players like Grant Fuhr, who won five Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, and Tony McKegney, who scored over 20 goals in six consecutive seasons. They talk about the racism they encountered from fans, opposing players, and even their own teammates, but also about the support they received from their families and fellow players.

The documentary also delves into the experiences of black hockey players in the present day. We hear from players like P.K. Subban, Wayne Simmonds, and Joel Ward, who have become some of the biggest stars in the NHL. They talk about the pride they feel in representing their communities and the importance of being role models for young black players. The film also explores the ways in which racism still exists in hockey, both in explicit forms like slurs and stereotypes, and in more subtle ways like lack of representation in coaching and management positions.

One of the most interesting aspects of Soul On Ice is its focus on the history of black hockey players outside of North America. The documentary looks at the experiences of players in countries like Sweden, Finland, and the Czech Republic, where hockey is also a popular sport. We hear from players like Peter Worrell, who played professionally in Sweden, and Anson Carter, who played in Switzerland, about the challenges they faced both on and off the ice. The film also explores the experiences of black women hockey players, who often face even greater barriers to success.

Overall, Soul On Ice: Past, Present And Future is a compelling and informative documentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of North American sports history. The film is anchored by interviews with a wide range of players, coaches, journalists, and historians, who provide a rich and nuanced perspective on the experiences of black hockey players over the past century. Whether you're a hockey fan or not, this documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in issues of race, representation, and equality in sports.