The first woman of hockey, with Manon Rheaume

In the fifth episode of our mini-series presented by GoodLife Fitness dedicated to the first season of the PWHL and what it represents for women in sports and beyond, we bring you the story of Manon Rhéaume, a trailblazer who shattered the ultimate glass ceiling in the world of hockey. In 1992, she made history as the first and only woman to play in an NHL game, stepping onto the ice as a goaltender for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Manon also became the first female to sign a professional hockey contract, enjoying a six-year career in the minor leagues. Her achievements on the ice also include winning Gold Medals at the 1992 and 1994 World Hockey Championships and an Olympic Silver at the 1998 Nagano Games, the first to feature women’s hockey. 

Manon's journey is one of perseverance and breaking barriers. In 2022, she joined the LA Kings as a hockey operations and prospect adviser, further cementing her legacy in the sport. Throughout her career, Rhéaume encountered significant challenges and seemingly insurmountable odds, yet she remained undeterred in her pursuit of her dreams. Today, she shares her journey to inspire others to pursue their aspirations with determination and courage, both professionally and personally.

As the pioneering woman to compete in the NHL and shatter more ceilings for women in hockey (not to mention inspire generations of young women in sports), she offers not just her experiences but also vital strategies for overcoming obstacles, engaging allies, and pushing beyond comfort zones to achieve success.

This season of our podcast is brought to you by TD Canada Women in Enterprise. TD is proud to support women entrepreneurs and help them achieve success and growth through its program of educational workshops, financing and mentorship opportunities! Please find out how you can benefit from their support! Visit: TBIF: thebrandisfemale.com // TD Women in Enterprise: td.com/ca/en/business-banking/small-business/women-in-business // Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/thebrandisfemale