Documentary 'Soul on Ice' Continues to Inspire Hockey Fans 10 Years Later

The film spotlighting Black contributions to the sport has had a lasting impact on the NHL and its teams.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Ten years after its premiere, the documentary "Soul on Ice" continues to resonate with hockey fans and inspire change within the NHL. The film, which spotlights the contributions of Black players to the sport, has led to initiatives like the Washington Capitals' permanent display honoring Black players in their history and the Pittsburgh Penguins' Willie O'Ree Academy, a training and enrichment program for young players.

Why it matters

The lasting impact of "Soul on Ice" demonstrates the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse history of hockey. By shining a light on the stories of Black players, the documentary has prompted important discussions and actions within the NHL to promote inclusivity and representation in the sport.

The details

The documentary, directed by Kwame Mason, has had a tangible impact on NHL teams and their engagement with their local communities. Washington Capitals owner Ted Leonsis said the film led to stronger ties with the District's only indoor ice rink, the creation of special jerseys honoring Black history, and the construction of a permanent display at Capital One Arena recognizing the team's Black players. Meanwhile, one of the film's key subjects, Lindo, now heads the Pittsburgh Penguins' Willie O'Ree Academy, a program established in 2020 to provide training and enrichment opportunities for young players.

  • The documentary "Soul on Ice" premiered 10 years ago in 2016.
  • The Pittsburgh Penguins established the Willie O'Ree Academy in 2020.

The players

Kwame Mason

The director of the documentary "Soul on Ice".

Ted Leonsis

The owner of the Washington Capitals, who said the film led to initiatives within the organization.

Lindo

A key subject in the documentary who now heads the Pittsburgh Penguins' Willie O'Ree Academy.

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What they’re saying

“The film did an exceptional job of illuminating stories that deserved a lasting place in the fabric of the sport. Our display at Capital One Arena reflects that same commitment -- to recognition, education, and ensuring fans understand the full history of hockey and the diverse individuals who helped build it.”

— Ted Leonsis, Washington Capitals Owner (nhl.com)

“I'm always going to be grateful to have been part of something special like that. Kwame is part of hockey history. He did something that a lot of people didn't believe could be done, didn't believe there was a market for. And now you look at the trickle-down effect that it has had on hockey as a whole? It's incredible.”

— Lindo, Head of Pittsburgh Penguins' Willie O'Ree Academy (nhl.com)

The takeaway

The lasting impact of the documentary "Soul on Ice" demonstrates the power of storytelling to inspire change and promote greater diversity and inclusion in the sport of hockey. By shining a light on the contributions of Black players, the film has prompted meaningful initiatives within the NHL to recognize and celebrate the full history of the game.