Bill Riley

William Riley (born September 20, 1950 in Amherst, Nova Scotia) is a retired Canadian ice hockey player, and was the third black player in the National Hockey League.

Riley was given a tryout with the Washington Capitals during their inaugural season and actually played in one game, but he spent most of his time in the minors, primarily with the Dayton Gems. It was during this time that he played under future Capitals' coach Tom McVie. He would eventually be signed as a free agent by the Capitals during the 1976–77 NHL season and would play for the Capitals in parts of the next three seasons.

Riley was claimed by the Winnipeg Jets in the 1979 NHL Expansion Draft, but only played in 14 games before he was sent to the minors, where he played until he retired following the 1983–84 season.

As well Bill Riley was player-coach and captain of the St. John's Caps located in Newfoundland for a number of years during the late 80's. A Popular player that was noted not only for his toughness but fairness as well.

After retiring from professional play, Riley moved into coaching. He was the Head Coach, General Manager and Director Of Player Personnel of the Miramichi Timberwolves of the Maritime Junior A Hockey League. He also served as Head Coach of the Moncton Wildcats during the 1996–97 season, finishing with a 16–52–2.

External links

*hockeydb|4574
*legendsofhockey|14121
* [http://www.timberwolves.homestead.com/ Miramichi Timberwolves]
* [http://www.moncton-wildcats.com/en-ca/history/coach.php?PLAYER_ID=1 Moncton Wildcats]