Manon Rheaume, the pioneering woman who broke the NHL’s glass ceiling by appearing in a preseason game, has now been appointed general manager of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s expansion franchise in Detroit. The announcement, made on May 6, positions Rheaume at the forefront of a new era for the league as it prepares for its inaugural 2026‑27 season.
A New Era for PWHL Detroit
Rheaume will oversee the construction of a competitive roster, the development of a hockey operations staff and the logistical demands of launching a franchise that aims to elevate women’s professional hockey on both sides of the border.
Having spent the last four years in hockey operations with the Los Angeles Kings, Rheaume brings a depth of experience that blends scouting, player development and organizational strategy. Her tenure with the Kings sharpened her analytical acumen and honed her ability to evaluate talent at the highest level of the sport.
The upcoming 2026 PWHL Draft, scheduled for June 17, will be the first opportunity for the Detroit front office to shape the team’s foundation. Rheaume says the draft will guide the roster‑building process and set the tone for the franchise’s competitive aspirations.
Beyond her club responsibilities, Rheaume’s decorated international résumé — including gold medals at the 1992 and 1994 women’s world championships and an Olympic silver in 1998 — adds a layer of credibility and inspiration. Her journey from the ice rinks of Canada to the executive suite underscores the growing visibility of women in hockey leadership.