Rheaume Continues To Be The Only Woman To Play in the NHL

Published on August 18th, 2024 4:05 pm EST
Written By: Dave Manuel


Manon Rheaume sent shockwaves through the hockey world when she laced up the skates for the Tampa Bay Lightning and played in an exhibition game.

On September 23, 1992, a landmark event in hockey history unfolded in the form of an exhibition game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the St. Louis Blues. It was an occasion that transcended typical preseason fare, as the Tampa Bay Lightning made the bold decision to include a female goaltender on their roster. That goaltender was Manon Rheaume, whose participation in this game would not only challenge perceptions but also inspire future generations of female athletes.

Manon Rheaume's inclusion in the game was a significant milestone. At 20 years old, she became the first woman to play in an NHL game, breaking barriers in a league traditionally dominated by men. Rheaume's journey to the NHL was itself remarkable. Born in Lac-Beauport, Quebec, she had already made waves in women's hockey, including an impressive performance with the Canadian National Women's Hockey Team, which won the gold medal at the 1992 Women's World Championships. Her athleticism and skill as a goaltender made her an obvious choice for an exhibition game opportunity.

The game took place at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan, not the home ice of the Lightning, but a neutral venue that added to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event. The crowd was buzzing with curiosity and anticipation as Rheaume took to the ice. She was dressed in the Tampa Bay Lightning's black, white, and silver gear, and her presence was a visual testament to the evolving landscape of professional hockey.

Rheaume's performance in the game was both memorable and commendable. Although the Lightning lost the game 4-2 to the St. Louis Blues, Rheaume's contribution was notable. She played the entire first period, facing a number of shots and making several key saves. Her poise and agility in the crease were evident, even if the Blues managed to score two goals during her time on the ice. Her participation was not about the statistics but rather the symbolism of her presence and the skill she brought to the game.

The aftermath of the game saw Rheaume's story make headlines around the world. Her appearance in the NHL was a groundbreaking moment that showcased her talent and opened doors for future female hockey players. After the exhibition game, Rheaume continued her hockey career with a mixture of high-profile and developmental leagues. She played in the International Hockey League (IHL) and the Continental Hockey League (CHL), further establishing her reputation as a skilled and resilient goaltender.

Rheaume's journey also included a notable tenure with the Quebec Radio X in the Ligue Nord-Americaine de Hockey (LNAH), where she continued to break barriers and inspire young athletes. Her trailblazing presence in the NHL exhibition game was not a mere footnote in history but a catalyst for greater inclusivity in the sport.

In the years following her historic game, Manon Rheaume's impact extended beyond her on-ice achievements. She became an ambassador for women's sports and hockey, participating in numerous events and advocating for greater opportunities for female athletes. Her legacy is not only measured by her athletic accomplishments but also by her role in challenging stereotypes and expanding the horizons of the sport.

Manon Rheaume's NHL exhibition game remains a powerful symbol of progress and possibility in professional sports. Her courage to step onto the ice, coupled with her impressive performance, paved the way for future generations and left an indelible mark on the history of hockey.