Akim Aliu is a former Canadian ice hockey player who made headlines both on and off the ice. Born on April 24, 1989 in Nigeria, Aliu's journey to becoming a professional hockey player was anything but conventional. His early years were filled with challenges and obstacles that he had to overcome in order to achieve his dream of playing in the National Hockey League.
Aliu's passion for hockey was ignited at a young age when he acquired his first pair of skates from a garage sale. He honed his skills in a house league in the Parkdale neighborhood of Toronto, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. His hard work paid off when he was drafted into the Ontario Hockey League in the first round by the Windsor Spitfires.
As he continued to impress with his performance on the ice, Aliu caught the attention of NHL scouts and was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the second round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional hockey career, which would take him on a journey through various teams and leagues.
Aliu's professional career saw him play for HC Litvínov in the Czech Extraliga, as well as the Rockford IceHogs in the American Hockey League (AHL). It was during his time with the IceHogs that Aliu faced a significant challenge off the ice.
In November 2019, Aliu came forward with allegations against former Calgary Flames coach Bill Peters, accusing him of directing racial epithets at him while coaching the Rockford IceHogs. This incident shed light on the issue of racism in hockey and sparked conversations about the need for diversity and inclusion in the sport.
Despite facing adversity in his career, Aliu has remained determined to make a positive impact on the hockey community. In June 2020, he co-founded the Hockey Diversity Alliance alongside professional ice hockey player Evander Kane. The alliance aims to address intolerance and racism in hockey, promoting inclusivity and equality for all players.
Aliu's commitment to creating a more diverse and welcoming environment in hockey exemplifies his resilience and dedication to making a difference. His experiences both on and off the ice have shaped him into a strong advocate for change within the sport.
As a father to his son Kash Michael Aliu and a role model to aspiring hockey players, Akim Aliu's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments on the ice. He continues to inspire others to challenge stereotypes and break down barriers, paving the way for a more inclusive future in hockey.
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