Fred Sasakamoose
Fred Sasakamoose was a pioneering Indigenous Canadian professional ice hockey player, known as the first First Nations player with treaty status to play in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on December 25, 1933, in Whitefish Lake, Saskatchewan, he endured a traumatic childhood at a residential school before finding solace and a path forward through hockey. He played 11 games for the Chicago Black Hawks during the 1953-54 season. After his playing career, Sasakamoose dedicated himself to serving the First Nations community, using sports to create opportunities for Indigenous youth. He was a respected Elder, community leader, and advocate for reconciliation. His memoir, 'Call Me Indian,' was published posthumously.
Awards
['Member of the Order of Canada (2017)', 'National Aboriginal Achievement Award (2011)', 'Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame (2007)', 'Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame (2012)', 'Prince Albert Hall of Fame', 'Canadian Native Hockey Hall of Fame', 'FSIN Circle of Honour Award', 'Meadow Lake Wall of Fame Award', 'North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame (2023)', 'Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Saskatchewan (2020)']
Notable Works
['Call Me Indian']
