Montreal Police Officer Swaps Badge for Whistle at 2026 Winter Olympics
In a remarkable career transition, Montreal police Constable Elizabeth Mantha is exchanging her law enforcement duties for a whistle and stripes on the international stage. The officer is set to officiate women's hockey games at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, with the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) heralding this achievement as "another milestone in a remarkable career."
From Police Patrols to Olympic Ice
Constable Mantha will begin her officiating duties in the women's hockey tournament starting Thursday, bringing her expertise from the streets of Montreal to the Olympic rinks. This prestigious assignment follows her previous experience at the 2022 Beijing Games, demonstrating her consistent presence at the highest levels of international sports officiating.
The SPVM expressed immense pride in their officer's accomplishment through a social media post, stating: "Since her early days on the ice, Elizabeth has climbed the ranks to the highest level, becoming a pioneer in the world of officiating." The department emphasized her trailblazing role as one of the first women to officiate in both the American Hockey League and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
A Pioneering Career in Officiating
Constable Mantha's officiating credentials extend beyond Olympic competition. Her impressive resume includes:
- Officiating in the Professional Women's Hockey League
- Being the first woman to officiate in the QMJHL
- Breaking barriers as one of the earliest female officials in the AHL
- Maintaining dual careers in law enforcement and elite sports officiating
The Montreal police department highlighted how "Elizabeth continues to push boundaries and inspire future generations" through her dedication to both professions. They extended their full support and best wishes for her success during the Olympic competition.
Olympic Timeline and Significance
The 2026 Winter Olympics run from February 4 to February 22, with Constable Mantha's officiating duties occurring during the women's hockey tournament. Her participation represents not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for women in sports officiating, particularly in hockey where female officials at elite levels remain relatively uncommon.
This dual-career success story showcases how professionals can excel in multiple demanding fields simultaneously. Constable Mantha's ability to balance police work with elite sports officiating serves as an inspiration to aspiring officials and demonstrates the transferable skills between law enforcement and sports regulation.
The SPVM's public celebration of their officer's achievement reflects the growing recognition of diverse career accomplishments within law enforcement agencies. As Constable Mantha takes to the Olympic ice, she carries with her the support of her police colleagues and represents Montreal on the international sports stage.
