Amerks to Hold "Val James Legends Night"
January 21, 2015 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Rochester Americans News Release
(Rochester, NY)... The Rochester Americans announced today that Val James will sign autographs prior to the Amerks game versus the Adirondack Flames on Friday, Feb. 13 at The Blue Cross Arena as part of the next Seneca Casinos Legends Night. Copies of his new autobiography, Black Ice: The Val James Story, will be on sale in the Amerks Team Store presented by Adpro Sports that night.
In addition to signing autographs in the upper atrium from 6:00 p.m. to 6:50 p.m., James will also participate in a ceremonial puck drop before the game and greet Season Ticket Holders in the VIP Lounge during the first intermission.
James, the first American-born black player in Amerks and NHL history, appeared in 253 games with the Amerks from 1980-81 to 1984-85 and was a fan favorite during his time with the club. He was a key member of the 1983 Calder Cup championship team, scoring the game-winning goal in the deciding game of the Calder Cup Finals against the Maine Mariners. James collected 24 points (10+14) and 496 penalty minutes during his Amerks career.
James became the first African American player in the NHL when he took to the ice with the Buffalo Sabres in 1982. In 1987, he once again made history as the first black player of any nationality to skate for the Toronto Maple Leafs. While popular for his tough play and winning personality, James faced racist taunts at opposing arenas throughout his career. Black Ice, co-written with John Gallagher, is the untold story of this trail-blazing athlete who endured and overcame discrimination to realize his dreams and become an inspiration for future generations.
The Seneca Casinos Legends Series is now in its sixth year and will feature one more special appearance later this season.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call 1-855-GO-AMERKS or visit www.amerks.com.
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