Montreal Victoire GM Sauvageau first-ever female Hockey Hall of Fame ‘builder’

Montreal Victoire GM Danièle Sauvageau was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in the builder category.

Montreal Victoire general manager and former Canadian Olympic women’s hockey coach Danièle Sauvageau is now a Hall-of-Famer.

The 2002 gold medal-winning coach from Deux-Montagnes was the first woman inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in the “builders” category on Tuesday.

“I am extremely touched by this recognition. I wish to thank my family, my friends, my accomplices, and all the players who have accompanied me on this journey. This success is ours,” said Sauvageau, who coached the Canadian women’s team to its first-ever gold medal in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She led the Victoire to second and first overall place in the first two PWHL seasons.

“Danièle has made an immeasurable impact on our sport - particularly in advancing the women’s game - and continues to shape its future at the highest level with the PWHL,” said PWHL executive vice president Jayna Hefford, who also played for Sauvageau in 2002. “Her determined vision to grow the game and create meaningful opportunities for players to thrive is the mark of a true builder, and her Hall of Fame recognition is incredibly well deserved.”

Sauvageau joins Clarence S. Campbell, Pierre Lacroix, James Norris, Lord Stanley of Preston, Patt Quinn and other men who have contributed to the growth of the game.

She and Jack Parker were inducted in the builders’ category, along with six other players.

“My parents have supported me throughout my career,” said Savageau. “They taught me that perseverance, patience and passion are the key builders in life. I’m so proud to now be a Builder in the Hockey Hall of Fame.”

The former RCMP officer was inducted into the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame in 2008 and was made an officer of the Order of Canada in 2013.