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- The National Hockey League celebrated 'Hockey is for Everyone' in February, as a time for promoting inclusiveness and a positive environment for all--including both men and women.
- Fatima Al Ali, a 27-year-old United Arab Emirates native who plays for the UAE’s women’s national team, joined the festivities this year when former Washington Capitals star Peter Bondra surprised her with a trip to Washington, D.C. to meet and practice with her favorite NHL team.
- Al Ali began playing hockey only six years ago, but her skills have impressed both Bondra and Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin. Back home, she also referees men’s games.
- “I hope that I can inspire enough people, or at least women. Have a dream, just go make it come true,” Al Ali said.
Class discussion questions
- Essential question : What are some of the challenges in standing up to cultural or gender stereotypes?
- Where is Abu Dhabi? What do you know about the United Arab Emirates?
- What was it about Al Ali's story that struck former Washington Capitals player Peter Bondra?
- Have you ever gone against the grain and set out to accomplish something that others thought you were not capable of doing?
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Sarah Seale contributed to today's Daily News Story.
