June 18th 2024.
In 2015, history was made as Blake Bolden became the first Black woman to play in the National Women's Hockey League. Nine years later, her passion for the sport has led her to a new role as the first Black woman scout for an NHL team, the Los Angeles Kings. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Bolden joined the Kings organization in 2020 and also serves as their Growth & Inclusion Specialist, according to her website.
With a strong belief in diversifying the sport, Bolden is a part of the NHL's Player Inclusion Coalition and is dedicated to providing marginalized youth with access to hockey. In an interview with Essence, she shared, "My main goal is to just diversify the game. The NHL has this slogan saying, 'Hockey is for everyone,' and that is something I have held onto my whole life." As a woman of color, Bolden understands the importance of representation and wants to make sure that every person, regardless of race or gender, feels welcome and accepted in the world of hockey.
Putting her words into action, Bolden helped bring together over 75 young hockey players of color in Detroit for a community-building and skill development weekend with the help of a grant from the NHL PIC. This event was a huge success and showcased the power of inclusivity in the sport. Bolden also participated in a scrimmage at the Anaheim Ducks facility with other NHL players, providing guidance and support to the participants.
In 2023, Bolden was recognized by USA Hockey for her mentorship of youth in the sport. She shared, "Now that I'm out in the community a lot, I really see myself in these young girls, and I see how they sometimes struggle with anxiety or everyday life and sports." This understanding has inspired her to create the "emBolden Her Mentorship Program," in collaboration with companies like Winmark and Play It Again Sports. Through this program, Bolden hopes to provide role models for young girls, just as she had growing up.
Bolden's own hockey career was impressive, with her representing the United States at the 2008 and 2009 Under-18 Women's World Championships, where her team won gold both times. She credits her success to the lessons she has learned along the way and wants to share those with others through her mentorship program. Bolden believes that by breaking barriers and promoting diversity in the sport, she can make a positive impact on the next generation of hockey players. We can't wait to see what she accomplishes next.
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