Note: the world of professional sports has long been a challenging arena for women, and hockey is no exception. Traditionally perceived as a male-dominated sport, hockey has slowly but surely opened its doors to female talent, though the journey has been anything but easy. The NHL (often seen as the pinnacle of hockey) has played a significant role in showcasing and fostering inclusivity. While progress has been made, the fight for recognition and opportunity for women in hockey is ongoing.
Women Who Shaped NHL History
Breaking into the NHL, Marguerite Norris became the first female executive in the league’s history when she served as president of the Detroit Red Wings from 1952 to 1955. Her leadership led to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, and she was the first woman to have her name engraved on the prestigious trophy. Her role paved the way for future women to step into the world of professional hockey.
Fast forward to 1992, and Manon Rhéaume shattered yet another glass ceiling by becoming the first woman to play in any of the major professional North American sports leagues. As a goaltender for the Tampa Bay Lightning in a preseason game, she stopped seven of nine shots, proving her skills on the ice.
The NHL continued to evolve in 2016 when Dawn Braid was hired as the Arizona Coyotes’ skating coach, making her the first full-time female coach in the league. The same year, the NHL hosted the Outdoor Women’s Classic, an exhibition game featuring the Boston Pride and Les Canadiennes, signaling a growing appreciation for women’s hockey at the professional level.
Women in NHL Competitions
In 2019, the NHL made headlines by inviting four women from the U.S. and Canadian Olympic teams to demonstrate their skills during the All-Star competition. Kendall Coyne Schofield stepped in for Nathan MacKinnon in the Fastest Skater Competition, becoming the first woman to officially compete in the NHL All-Star festivities. Her incredible performance ignited interest and support for women’s hockey, leading to the inclusion of a 3-on-3 women’s game at the 2020 All-Star event.
Rhéaume once again graced the NHL stage in 2022, participating in the Breakaway Challenge during the All-Star Game. These moments celebrated the achievements of these trailblazers and obviously highlighted the incredible talent and speed of women in hockey.
The Road Ahead
The NHL has made strides in integrating women into its culture, from leadership roles to on-ice performances. However, there is still work to be done to provide more opportunities and visibility for women in hockey. By continuing to showcase female talent and support initiatives that promote gender equality, the National Hockey League has the potential to become a leader in inclusivity within professional sports.
Dear women, we await you in hockey!