The San Jose Sharks made a historical hire on July 5 when the team named Mike Grier as its newest general manager. Grier became the first Black general manager in NHL history.
“It’s something I’m extremely proud of,” Grier said in his introductory press conference. “Since my playing days, the league itself has gotten more and more diverse. There are more Black players in the league and minorities in the league. There are more women and minorities in the front office, in scouting and coaching positions. From my standpoint, that’s something exciting to see. For me, my job is to do the best for the San Jose Sharks organization, and hopefully, if I do that, it opens the door to give other minorities to get front office positions and maybe lead a team down the road as well.”
"It's something that I'm extremely proud of."
Mike Grier on becoming the first Black GM in NHL history pic.twitter.com/vO74oN6eDi
— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) July 5, 2022
Here are seven quick facts to learn about Grier:
- He was born in Detroit on Jan. 5, 1975.
- From 1993-1996, he played at Boston University.
- He played 14 NHL seasons for the Edmonton Oilers, Washington Capitals, Buffalo Sabres and San Jose Sharks.
- His brother Chris Grier is the general manager of the Miami Dolphins: “Our parents deserve all the credit for how they raised us,” Chris’ official statement read. “We were very fortunate to be able to observe. and learn from our father, Bobby, while growing up. Congratulations to Mike and the San Jose Sharks on a great hire!”
- Grier was the first Black hockey player born and trained in the United States to make the NHL.
- He was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft but was traded to the Oilers.
- He was a hockey operations advisor for the New York Rangers.
