May 16, 2008 - The International Ice Hockey Federation threw a party and finally invited some women.
American Cammi Granato and Canadians Geraldine Heaney and Angela James became the first women inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame, which is housed inside the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. There are now 163 players and builders from 23 countries enshrined in the hall.
Granato, who played 15 years, captained Team USA and won Olympic gold in 1998, gave an impassioned and eloquent acceptance speech that was both personal and representative of all female players.
“To be among the first women in the Hall of Fame is hard to put into words but it’s extremely special to me. I’m incredibly honoured. I grew up playing with boys and shared the same dream as my brothers.”
“It was really hard for me to accept that I couldn’t play for the Chicago Blackhawks. Because I was a girl I couldn’t have that dream. I want to thank the IIHF for giving me another dream.”
Heaney, who won seven gold medals at the worlds and one at the 2002 Olympics, was choked up at the event as she had recently suffered a death in the family.
“She was a huge hockey fan and a supporter of me. I’d just like to say this is for you, Kath,” Heaney said at the podium.
James was also emotional and cognizant of their role in female hockey history as she accepted her place in the hall.
“We were very fortunate we had the opportunity to play so many years. We’re just the start of many more to come. We’re going to hopefully continue to see a great game for years to come.”
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