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Bonnie Shea's hockey career–like a hockey game–can be summarized in three periods: Bonnie Shea became the first girl to play organized hockey in Duluth in 1951. She's still playing today at the age of 78. By David Cowardin Goals & Assists Goals & Assists 06 06 "I'll Play 'Til I Can't" RINK RATS M H J ON L I N E . C O M | J A N / F E B 2 0 2 4 First Period In 1951, when Shea was 7 years old, she watched the boys play hockey from her childhood home across the street from Congdon Park. She wanted to join, so she got herself a paper route, bought some gear, tucked her hair up in her hat to disguise her gender, and became the first girl to play organized hockey in Duluth. "I had a little difficult time because the boys tried to check me," said Shea, "I certainly got black and blue, but never lost any teeth." As a girl, she had to work extra hard to prove herself. She practiced on her own before the rink would open, and quickly became one of the leading scorers on her team. Recognizing her skill, the East high school coach asked her to try out for their team, but before she got the opportunity, the principal announced that no girls would be allowed to play on the boys hockey team. Shea's promising hockey career was over. She was 15 years old. On Dec. 12, Shea was honored during a varsity game dubbed "Bonnie's Night at the Rink" between Duluth and Cloquet- Esko-Carlton at the Heritage Center. Photos / Alex Messenger, David Cowardin, University of Minnesota Duluth