The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has appointed Manon Rhéaume as the general manager of its new Detroit franchise. This marks a significant milestone in her storied career and a major step for Women’s hockey in the league.
Manon Rhéaume: A Trailblazer in Women’s Hockey
Rhéaume, a renowned figure in hockey, previously held a position in hockey operations with the Los Angeles Kings for four seasons. Before that, she worked for 11 years with the Little Caesars AAA Hockey Club, where she directed the Girls’ Division. Her contributions focused on player development and mentorship.
Jayna Hefford, PWHL’s executive vice-president of hockey operations, praised Rhéaume’s impact on the sport. She noted, “Manon is a pioneer whose influence on the game goes beyond the ice. Her unmatched resume and commitment to growing women’s hockey make her the right leader for PWHL Detroit.”
A Celebrated Career
Rhéaume’s legacy includes being the first woman to sign a professional hockey contract. In 1992, she made history by playing in an NHL game with the Tampa Bay Lightning. On the international stage, she has represented Canada, winning two gold medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championship and earning a silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano.
Building Detroit’s Hockey Future
Rhéaume has already begun fostering her connection to Detroit. She participated in the ceremonial puck drop at Little Caesars Arena during the league’s first game in March 2024. She expressed her excitement about the new role, stating, “I’m honored to join the PWHL and help build something special in Detroit, a city with rich hockey traditions.”
Upcoming Challenges
Her primary tasks will include establishing the hockey operations department and assembling the team’s inaugural roster. The league will finalize its expansion draft and player acquisition process in the coming weeks. The 2026 PWHL Draft is scheduled for June 17 at the Fox Theatre in Detroit.
- Expansion of the League: Detroit joins Las Vegas and Hamilton, increasing the number of teams to 11.
- Partnership: The league collaborates with Ilitch Sports and Entertainment for the Detroit franchise.
- Season Tickets: Fans can now reserve season tickets with deposits.
