Manon Rhéaume felt deeply moved as she tuned in to the first-ever Professional Women’s Hockey League draft in 2023 and witnessed Taylor Heise being selected as the top pick. Reflecting on the moment, Rhéaume expressed how emotional it was for her and emphasized the significance of witnessing Heise’s draft moment as a pivotal and genuine moment in women’s hockey.
Growing up in Quebec, Rhéaume recalled being the only girl in her community who played hockey. She vividly remembered wearing her goalie helmet to hide her identity as a female goaltender when entering the rink. The 54-year-old from Lac-Beauport marveled at the progress of women’s hockey as she watched Heise’s draft unfold online.
Rhéaume’s recent appointment as the first general manager of the PWHL’s new team in Detroit marks a significant milestone in her career. Having lived and worked in Michigan for over two decades, including serving as the girls’ division director at the Little Caesars AAA Hockey Club in Detroit for 11 years, Rhéaume’s journey has come full circle.
Among the notable milestones in women’s hockey, Rhéaume holds a unique place as the first and only woman to play in an NHL game. Her groundbreaking achievement of playing in NHL pre-season games for the Tampa Bay Lightning in 1992 and 1993 continues to inspire young players and fans alike.
Rhéaume’s impact on the hockey community extends beyond her on-ice achievements. She has been a role model for aspiring athletes, with many individuals sharing how her story has motivated them to pursue their dreams in sports. Rhéaume’s involvement in men’s minor pro hockey and her silver medal win with Team Canada at the 1998 Olympics further solidified her legacy in the sport.
Having raised her two sons in Michigan, both of whom have excelled in hockey, Rhéaume’s ties to the state run deep. Her extensive experience in hockey operations and player development, including her tenure with the Los Angeles Kings, positioned her as a trailblazer in a field traditionally dominated by men.
The PWHL’s expansion to include Detroit, Las Vegas, Hamilton, and San Jose in 2026-27 aligns with Rhéaume’s lifelong dedication to the sport. For Rhéaume, the opportunity to lead the Detroit team represents a culmination of her experiences and contributions to hockey, underscoring the profound impact the sport has had on her life.