George McPhee aka “The Undertaker” (named for his play after the whistle) has led a very successful career in hockey that has its roots right here at Bowling Green State University. McPhee is the current General Manager of the Washington Capitals, as well as the team’s alternate governor and vice-president.
McPhee spent four very successful years playing for the Falcons from 1978-1982 suiting up for a total of 153 games. During those 153 games, McPhee scored 114 goals and added 153 assists for a total of 267 points. McPhee’s best season came in his freshman year with the Falcons where he put up 40 goals and added 48 assists in 43 games. His totals slumped during his sophomore and junior years but his senior year saw him reach a career high in assists (52) and end up 8 points shy of his career best.
During his time at BGSU, McPhee was the recipient of numerous awards for his play on the ice. In 1979 he was named the CCHA’s Rookie of the year and was also named to the Second-Team All-CCHA, an award he would receive again in 1981. 1982 was by far the best for McPhee as he was named to the First-Team All-CCHA and was the recipient of the Hobey Baker Award. The Hobey Baker Award is comparable to the Heismann Trophy for collegiate football players, as it is awarded to the best collegiate hockey player in the country.
After BGSU and his career with the Falcons, McPhee went on to enjoy a seven year career in the NHL with the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers.
McPhee reached his current position with the Washington Capitals in 1997 after working with the Vancouver Canucks since 1992. Under George McPhee, the Washington Capitals have won five Southeast Division Championships, had six 40 or more win seasons and a franchise record 121point season in 2009-2010. However through all of this success, the team is still in its search for a Stanley Cup and they have been unable to advance past the second round of the playoffs.
Many hockey experts believe that it is only a matter of time before the Washington Capitals win that elusive Stanley Cup and of course it doesn’t hurt having Alexander Ovechkin on your team, who is one of, if not, the best hockey player in the world.
