Art Dorrington, born on March 13, 1930, in Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada, embarked on a life that would see him break barriers in professional ice hockey and later dedicate himself to community betterment. Standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds, Dorrington played as a center, shooting left. His professional playing career spanned from 1949 to 1958, during which he played for several teams including the Atlantic City Seagulls, New Haven
Tomahawks, Washington Lions, Boston Olympics, Johnstown Jets, and Philadelphia Ramblers. Dorrington's legacy is marked not only by his athletic achievements but also by his commitment to helping others, particularly children from low-income families.
Breaking Barriers in Professional Hockey
Dorrington achieved a significant milestone in 1950 when he became the first Black hockey player to sign a National Hockey League (NHL) contract. This historic signing was with the New York Rangers organization, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's history. Despite this groundbreaking achievement and putting up very good statistics in the minor leagues, Dorrington was never able to advance to the major league ranks of the NHL. His career saw him play for various teams within the Eastern Hockey League, such as the Atlantic City Seagulls, where he continued to demonstrate his skill and dedication to the sport.
His journey in professional hockey, though not reaching the NHL's top tier, paved the way for future Black athletes in the sport. Dorrington's presence in the minor leagues, playing for teams across different cities, showcased his talent and resilience. He was a professional ice hockey center who contributed to the game during a period when racial barriers were prevalent, making his signing with an NHL organization a notable event.
Transition to Public Service
After concluding his professional hockey career in 1958, Dorrington transitioned into a new chapter of public service. He joined the Atlantic County Sheriff's Office, dedicating himself to law enforcement. This career change demonstrated his continued commitment to serving the community, moving from the competitive world of professional sports to a role focused on public safety and order. His work in the Sheriff's Office allowed him to remain an active and contributing member of the Atlantic City community, where he had previously played hockey.
His dedication to public service extended beyond his role in law enforcement. Dorrington's post-hockey career was characterized by a desire to give back, particularly to the youth. This commitment would later manifest in a significant initiative aimed at providing opportunities for children in his community.
Founding the Art Dorrington Ice Hockey Foundation
In the late 1990s, Art Dorrington established the Art Dorrington Ice Hockey Foundation. This program was created with a clear mission: to teach hockey to children from low-income families in Atlantic City. Recognizing the potential of sports to positively impact young lives, Dorrington leveraged his own experience in hockey to create a pathway for children who might not otherwise have access to the sport. The foundation provided an opportunity for these children to learn the game, develop skills, and benefit from the discipline and teamwork that hockey instills.
Through the foundation, Dorrington left a lasting legacy that transcended his playing days. He passed away on December 29, 2017, at the age of 87 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. His life story is a testament to his pioneering spirit in hockey and his profound dedication to community service, particularly through his efforts to empower youth through sports.
