Don Awrey, a name synonymous with grit and Stanley Cup glory in Boston Bruins history, recently shared reflections on his remarkable NHL career. From overcoming a potentially career-ending back injury to becoming a cornerstone defenseman for the Bruins, Awrey's journey is a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and a deep love for the game.

Born on July 18, 1943, in Kitchener, Ontario, Donald William Awrey defied the odds to carve out a 17-season NHL career. A severe back injury in high school required surgery to fuse three vertebrae, confining him to a Stryker frame for three weeks and casting doubt on his ability to walk, let alone play hockey again. However, Awrey's determination prevailed, and he not only recovered but excelled, joining the Niagara Falls Flyers of the OHA.

His time with the Flyers led to a contract with the Boston Bruins, where he debuted in the 1963-64 season. Despite being a fast skater, he initially struggled to find his place, even being utilized as a left wing for a period. A stint with the Hershey Bears of the AHL proved crucial, as coach Frank Mathers helped him develop the confidence and aggressiveness needed to succeed at the NHL level.

Awrey's career blossomed upon his return to the Bruins. He became known as a stay-at-home defenseman, celebrated for his shot-blocking prowess and bone-crushing hits. Often paired with the legendary Bobby Orr, Awrey's defensive reliability allowed Orr to unleash his offensive talents. He played 979 games in the NHL.

Awrey's contributions were instrumental in the Bruins' Stanley Cup victories in 1970 and 1972. He was a key part of those teams. His stellar play earned him a spot on Team Canada for the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union, where he played in two games. According to Awrey, the series changed the game.

After a decade with the Bruins, Awrey was traded to the St. Louis Blues in 1973. He played in the 1974 All-Star Game during his time with the Blues. A subsequent trade sent him to the Montreal Canadiens, where he won another Stanley Cup in 1976, though he did not play in the playoffs that year. Unfortunately, Awrey's name was not engraved on the Cup. He then played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, and Colorado Rockies before retiring in 1979.

In retirement, Awrey remained connected to the Bruins and the sport he loved. He lived in Fort Myers, Florida, and organized bus trips for Bruins fans to attend games in Florida. He and his wife, Marie, also became off-ice officials with the Florida Everblades of the ECHL.

Don Awrey's career is a reminder of the values of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. He was inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame in 2005 for his participation in the 1972 Summit Series. In 2023, he was named one of the top 100 Bruins players of all time. He overcame adversity to achieve success and contributed to Boston Bruins history.