A milestone for women’s hockey
Manon Rheaume has been named general manager of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s expansion team in Detroit, a role that places her at the helm of a franchise preparing for its debut in the 2026‑27 season. Her appointment marks a historic moment for the league and for women’s professional sports.
Rheaume’s playing résumé reads like a Hall of Fame career. She became the first and only woman to appear in an NHL preseason game, and she earned gold medals with Canada at the women’s world championship in 1992 and 1994. In 1998 she added a silver medal from the Olympic Games to her collection.
Before stepping into this front‑office position, Rheaume spent four seasons in hockey operations with the Los Angeles Kings, where she contributed to player development and strategic planning. Her experience on the ice and in the boardroom equips her with a unique perspective as she builds the new club.
Constructing a roster for the inaugural draft
The franchise will soon begin assembling its hockey operations staff and designing a roster‑building process ahead of the 2026 PWHL Draft scheduled for June 17. Rheaume will oversee the evaluation of prospects and the creation of a competitive lineup that aims to make an immediate impact in its first season.
PWHL Detroit was officially announced on May 6, confirming the city’s entry into the league’s expansion plan. The team’s launch will be closely watched as a benchmark for future growth opportunities within women’s professional hockey.