First woman to play in a professional American football game

On August 15, 1970, Patricia Palinkas made history by becoming the first woman to play in a professional American football game. She played as the holder for placekicks during an exhibition game between the Orlando Panthers and the Bridgeport Jets in the Atlantic Coast Football League. Her participation in this game was not only a personal achievement but a significant milestone for women in the field of sports, breaking through the existing barriers that had kept women out of professional American football.

Patricia’s entry onto the field was met with excitement and curiosity by the more than 12,000 spectators present. This moment was a pioneering step that challenged the status quo and encouraged future female participation in sports traditionally seen as male-dominated. Her feat underscored the capabilities of women in sports and inspired many others to follow in her footsteps.