Mariah Fujimagari signs professional tryout

Goaltender Mariah Fujimagari, who most recently played for the ECHL's Kalamazoo Wings, has signed a professional tryout (PTO) with the Federal Prospect Hockey League's (FPHL) Danbury Hat Tricks. The 30-year-old goaltender will be joining the team for the 2024-2025 season.

For those unfamiliar with professional hockey leagues in North America, the Federal Prospect Hockey League is a Single A minor professional hockey league with fourteen teams, primarily based in the southern and eastern United States. The Danbury Hat Tricks, based in Danbury, Connecticut, have announced the signing of Fujimagari, who previously played for the ECHL's Norfolk Admirals during the 2023-2024 season.

Some might question why a men's league would invite a woman to sign a PTO. However, in 2024, despite North America having the premier women's league in the PWHL, the presence of a woman on a men's roster should not attract negativity. If it does, it's a reflection of outdated attitudes.

Fujimagari's tenure with the Hat Tricks might be short, and some may view this as a publicity stunt to elicit responses or boost ticket sales. However, her inclusion is a testament to her abilities and determination, akin to Manon Rheaume's brief stint with the Tampa Bay Lightning or Shannon Szabados' practice sessions with the Edmonton Oilers. Fujimagari deserves this opportunity, and it highlights the evolving landscape of professional hockey, where talent and merit increasingly outweigh traditional gender barriers.

Source: Blade of Steel
Danbury Hat tricks sign goaltender Mariah Fujimagari to a PTO