Acting

Patricia Palinkas

Born January 1, 1943 · Chicago, Illinois, USA

Died June 21, 2025 · aged 82

Patricia Palinkas (born Patric Barczi, 1943–June 21, 2025) was the first woman to have played American football professionally in a predominantly male league. She was a holder for her husband Stephen Palinkas for the Orlando Panthers of the minor league Atlantic Coast Football League. She was the only woman professional American football player until Katie Hnida signed with the Fort Wayne Firehawk…

Known For

Panther Pat

Panther Pat · 2026

MovieDocumentaryComedy

In 1970, Patricia Palinkas became the first woman to play professional football. Panther Pat traces this high-stakes moment in sports history and the shattering of the gender barrier in America’s game.

Filmography

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Panther Pat

Panther Pat · 2026

MovieDocumentaryComedy

In 1970, Patricia Palinkas became the first woman to play professional football. Panther Pat traces this high-stakes moment in sports history and the shattering of the gender barrier in America’s game.