As 25-year-old Elijah Roberts prepares for what will likely be his final weekend of university hockey, he reflects on a significant change he’s observed in the game since his childhood. In an interview ahead of the U Sports men’s hockey national championship in Toronto, he mentioned being the sole Black player on a team during his early years.

By the time Roberts’s younger brother, seven years his junior, began playing, teams had become more diverse, according to Roberts. Transitioning to Toronto Metropolitan University from the Ontario Hockey League in 2021, Roberts noticed multiple Black-identifying players and one Black coach on the team, marking a notable shift. He expressed his appreciation for the inclusivity at his school, emphasizing that it was a new experience for him, aside from summer hockey.

TMU now boasts three Black-identifying players, including Roberts, aiming to make their city proud as the school hosts the national tournament. TMU head coach Johnny Duco highlighted diversity as a cornerstone of the school’s hockey program, citing former Black and female coaches who progressed to professional levels.

This year’s tournament occurs amid scrutiny of hockey, particularly in Canada, for allegations of abuse, discrimination, and an exclusive culture. Hockey Canada began reporting instances of on-ice discrimination across all levels and age groups in 2022, identifying over 900 cases of race-based discrimination in the inaugural year and nearly 1,900 the following year.

U Sports adheres to its code of conduct and harassment policy to address discrimination, aligning with Hockey Canada’s rules and discipline protocols. CEO Pierre Arsenault emphasized education and prevention as primary approaches to combat discrimination, positioning discipline as a last resort.

Roberts and his colleague, Kyle Bollers, acknowledged their relatively fortunate experiences regarding discrimination in hockey. They advocate for enhanced education and accountability across all levels to normalize their positive experiences for future players.

Roberts believes that increased representation of players from diverse backgrounds, exemplified by figures like former NHL defenseman P.K. Subban, will encourage more inclusivity in the sport. He hopes his young daughter will be inspired to play hockey as well, particularly with the rise of the Professional Women’s Hockey League.

Regarding the upcoming tournament, Roberts expressed gratitude for concluding his career at home, alongside teammates whom he expects to cherish as lifelong friends. He views it as a fitting conclusion to his journey in the sport.