The Aboriginal youth leadership and wellness program will take in 24 youth between the ages of 14 and 17.
They will take part in a three-day leadership camp at the U of R from May 29-31.
Academic Program Coordinator for Health Studies Jennifer Love Green says Sasakamoose instills pride and perseverance in youth.
“He is a giving, loving, welcoming man,” she says. “He makes me want to learn more about what I can do. And to see the things that he has overcome and how he has never let them define who he is. I respect that.”
Amongst the obstacles Sasakamoose has had to overcome is 10 years spent in a residential school.
He says the experience robbed him of his childhood but also gave him the opportunity to play hockey.
Sasakamoose suited up for the Chicago Blackhawks in 1954 and played just one season for the team.
His total professional hockey career was six years.
In spite of the short career, Sasakamoose has had a major impact on the sport and paved the way for other Aboriginal athletes.
He says he has never considered himself a role model, just part of the team.