Manon Rhéaume has been appointed as the general manager of PWHL Detroit, bringing a storied playing career that includes Olympic gold with Canada and pioneering stints in men’s professional leagues to the front office. Her résumé also features front‑office roles with the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and a long tenure as director of the Little Caesars girls’ division, giving her a deep well of hockey operations experience.
The new franchise will be backed by Ilitch Sports and Entertainment, the same organization that owns the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers, providing a solid commercial foundation as the league prepares for its inaugural season. Rhéaume expressed excitement about building a team in Detroit and contributing to the growth of women’s hockey.
A historic appointment
Rhéaume’s selection marks a milestone for the Professional Women’s Hockey League, which is expanding its footprint into the United States with a Detroit franchise. The move follows a player dispersal process that will begin on May 28, setting the stage for the 2026 draft to be hosted at Detroit’s Fox Theatre on June 17.
Beyond her playing achievements, Rhéaume’s involvement signals a commitment to developing talent and infrastructure for the sport. Her leadership aims to leverage the resources of Ilitch Sports and Entertainment to create a competitive roster that can rival established markets and inspire the next generation of female hockey players.