Manon Rheaume was the first ever female to see time in an NHL game. Granted it was an exhibition game, but it still counts as an appearance. She appeared in two games for the Lightning, one in 1992, and the other in 1993. Both were preseason games in which she was pulled halfway through. (Pretty common in NHL pre-season)

The Lightning later admitted it was more of a publicity stunt to gain awareness of the expansion team. Nonetheless, it really took off and her popularity blossomed. I’m sure she’s not upset about it because she’s milked it for all it was worth with books and appearances. She’s done just about everything but pose for Playboy and Penthouse despite being offered:(

If you think about the four major sports, the only opportunity for a woman is probably a goalie in the NHL. Football, no. Basketball, no. Baseball, hmmm no. I know never say never, but I really do not think I will see another female in men’s professional sports while I am alive. So give her credit for getting in a pre-season game, and also for being really cute. Keep in mind that picture is from the early nineties!