Hockey Nova Scotia is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Bill Riley Award and the Bill Riley Scholarship, two honours that recognize the impact and legacy of a true Nova Scotian hockey trailblazer.

These awards pay tribute to Bill Riley, who made history on December 26, 1974, when he became the third Black player to compete in the National Hockey League and the first of African Nova Scotian descent. Riley went on to play parts of five NHL seasons, captained teams in the AHL, and inspired generations through his perseverance, leadership, and love of the game.



2025 Bill Riley Award Winner: Darien Reynolds

A dedicated and driven player, Darien Reynolds embodies the traits that made Bill Riley such an impactful presence in the sport. From his early days with the Sydney Minor Hockey Association to making his mark on the QMJHL with the Saint John Sea Dogs, Darien has been a standout on and off the ice.

Known as a respectful, coachable, and quietly determined teammate, Darien’s work ethic, leadership, and passion for hockey have made him a role model. Whether competing at the elite level or engaging with younger players, Darien consistently demonstrates what it means to be a great teammate.



2025 Bill Riley Scholarship Recipient: Angelo Bravo Dugas

Angelo Bravo Dugas is the recipient of this year’s Bill Riley Scholarship, a $2,000 scholarship awarded to a graduating player of African descent pursuing post-secondary education. Angelo’s nomination spoke volumes about his incredible impact both in his school and his community.

A standout student at École Secondaire de Clare, Angelo has balanced academic achievement with a commitment to volunteerism, athletics, and leadership. As a trilingual student, volunteer firefighter, coach, musician, and community ambassador, Angelo has consistently demonstrated the kind of discipline, heart, and service that this scholarship seeks to recognize.

We congratulate Darien Reynolds and Angelo Bravo Dugas on this well-earned recognition and thank them for representing their communities and the game we love with such pride and passion.