Renowned as the voice of Calgary Flames radio broadcasts for over three decades, Peter Maher has passed away at the age of 79. Maher’s death was confirmed on Thursday following his tenure as the team’s play-by-play announcer for radio broadcasts, which began in 1980 and spanned 33 consecutive Flames seasons.
Throughout his illustrious career, which included the Flames’ Stanley Cup victory in 1989 and their appearance in the 2004 finals, Maher’s enthusiasm for his work and signature catchphrases like “Yeah, baby!” and “You can put it in the win column!” became synonymous with Calgary fans. He retired after the 2013-14 NHL season, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
The Flames expressed their condolences to Maher’s friends, family, and fans, acknowledging that his voice had become an integral part of the Flames fan experience. Describing Maher as more than just a broadcaster, the Flames highlighted his role as a passionate ambassador for the team and a beloved figure in the community.
Born and raised in Campbellton, New Brunswick, Maher initially called Toronto Maple Leafs games for the CKO Radio Network before joining the Flames as their official voice upon the team’s relocation to Calgary in 1980. Reflecting on his career in a 2018 interview, Maher described his move to Calgary as a pivotal moment that shaped his storied broadcasting journey.
Rob Kerr, who shared the press box with Maher at the Saddledome, mourned the loss of his colleague and praised Maher’s dedication to storytelling and authenticity in his broadcasts. Kerr emphasized Maher’s meticulous approach to his craft and recounted an instance during the 2004 playoffs where Maher’s exuberant call captured international attention.
In addition to his contributions to Flames broadcasts, Maher called six NHL All-Star games, the 2005 IIHF World Championship, and the Canadian men’s hockey team’s games at the 2010 Winter Olympics, including Sidney Crosby’s memorable “Golden Goal” moment. Maher’s exceptional work as an NHL broadcaster earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006, where he received the prestigious Foster Hewitt Memorial Award.
Following his retirement, Maher was honored with the naming of the broadcast booth in the Scotiabank Saddledome in his honor. His legacy lives on through an annual award presented by local media in Calgary to the Flames player who best embodies Maher’s values of sincerity, integrity, dedication, and respect.