Born: 1943
Biography:
Patricia Palinkas (née Barczi, born 1943) is credited as the first woman to play American football professionally in a league made predominantly of men. While she may not have been a prominent figure in women’s football, her impact on breaking gender barriers in the sport is noteworthy.
Patricia Palinkas did not play football during her time at Northern Illinois University. However, her entry into the world of professional football came unexpectedly. In 1970, the Orlando Panthers of the minor league Atlantic Coast Football League (ACFL) were struggling financially. The team was in dire need of a boost in attendance and media attention. The idea of signing a female football player was seen as a potential solution to their problems.
On August 15, 1970, Palinkas made her debut as the holder for her husband, Stephen Palinkas, the team’s kicker. In front of roughly twelve thousand fans, she stepped onto the field against the Bridgeport Jets. From the very beginning, she faced a hostile environment. Jets defenseman Wally Florence openly admitted that he had attempted to harm her, stating he wanted to break her neck for what he believed was making folly with a man’s game.
Despite the challenges, Palinkas successfully appeared in four more games. She made three consecutive extra-point kicks, displaying her competence in executing important plays. She also attempted a field goal, which unfortunately got blocked. However, her ability to contribute on the field was overshadowed by the ongoing controversies surrounding her involvement in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Despite experiencing threats from ACFL Commissioner Cosmo Iacavazzi, who attempted to block her contract and prevent her from playing, Palinkas managed to remain on the team. However, disagreements over payment eventually led to her suspension. She and several of her teammates left the Panthers due to salary disputes, with some players even claiming they were not paid at all.
Palinkas did hold an option to return to the team in 1971, which transferred to the Roanoke Buckskins after the Panthers suspended operations. However, due to the distance and previous problems she faced during her time with the Panthers, she decided not to exercise that option.
While her career in professional football may have been short-lived, Patricia Palinkas made a significant contribution by challenging societal norms and breaking barriers for women in the sport. Her presence on the field highlighted the need for greater gender inclusivity in football and paved the way for future athletes like Katie Hnida, who signed with the Fort Wayne Firehawks in 2010.