Manon Rheaume joins PWHL as GM of Detroit expansion team

The PWHL hired women's hockey legend Manon Rheaume on Friday to be the general manager of the Detroit expansion team.

The PWHL recently announced plans to expand to Detroit, Las Vegas and Hamilton (Ontario) for the 2026-27 season, with a 12th team reportedly planned for San Jose, Calif.

"I'm incredibly honored and excited to join the PWHL and help build something special in Detroit," Rheaume said. "This city has such a deep hockey tradition, and the passion for hockey here is truly special. The growth of women's hockey has been incredible to watch, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to help shape the future of the sport alongside the PWHL. I can't wait to get started and build a team that Detroit fans will be proud of."

Rheaume, 54, made history in 1992 by signing with the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning and becoming the first woman to compete in an exhibition game in any of the four major North American sports. A goaltender, she also won two world championships with Canada's women's team (1992, 1994) and a silver medal at the 1988 Nagano Olympics.

"Manon is a pioneer whose impact on the game extends far beyond the ice," said Jayna Hefford, PWHL executive vice president of hockey operations.

"She brings an unmatched hockey resume, a championship mindset, and a lifelong commitment to growing the women's game. Her experience at every level of hockey, combined with her leadership and vision, makes her the perfect person to lead PWHL Detroit into its inaugural season."

--Field Level Media