retired his jersey number<\/a> in an emotional ceremony at TD Garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThen yesterday, the Premier Hockey Federation (PHF) announced that O’Ree had joined the ownership group of the Boston Pride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“It is a thrill for me to extend my involvement in the sport and community that are such special parts of my life,\u201d said O\u2019Ree in a statement. \u201cThe growth of the women\u2019s game is so important, and I admire these world class athletes for being role models who are making a difference for younger generations. I have always received tremendous love and support in Boston. I\u2019m proud to be a member of the Pride and look forward to cheering these women on as they compete for another championship.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The PHF, formerly known as the National Women’s Hockey League, is continuing to grow and attract big names to the league and sport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On Monday the Federation announced that the Toronto Six franchise had been sold to a BIPOC ownership group<\/a> featuring former NHL player Anthony Stewart, Hockey Hall of Famer Angela James, Carnegie Initiative co-chair Bernice Carnegie and former NHL coach of the year Ted Nolan.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNow with the addition of Willie O’Ree, the PHF adds a trailblazing figure to the reigning Isobel Cup champions and the league as an owner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis is a really exciting day for the Boston Pride and we are honored to welcome Willie, an iconic hockey pioneer, to our ownership group,\u201d said Miles Arnone, Chair and Principal Owner of the Boston Pride. \u201cWillie is a true hockey trailblazer that has given so much of his life to the sport. His mission is reflected in our values as an organization and as a league that strives to grow the game for everyone.\u201d<\/p>