Blackhawks President, CEO John McDonough '75 to bring Stanley Cup to SMU Sept. 6

The Stanley Cup is coming to Saint Mary's! Saint Mary’s 1975 alumnus John McDonough, President and CEO of the Blackhawks, is bringing the National Hockey League Championship trophy to Saint Mary's Winona campus on Friday, Sept. 6, and you are all invited to join us for a public rally and for an exclusive SMU viewing of the Cup!

Three years ago, the Chicago Blackhawks put an end to a 49-year Stanley Cup drought, earning their first NHL title since 1961 with a stunning win over the Philadelphia Flyers.

McDonough was right there hoisting the Cup with the rest of the Blackhawk players and staff.

On June 24, Chicago did it again, as the Blackhawks claimed their second Stanley Cup title in a three-year span with a clinching 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins.

And on Friday, Sept. 6, McDonough will bring the championship spirit — and the cup — to Saint Mary’s.

“On behalf of Saint Mary’s, let me say how honored we are that John has chosen to share the Stanley Cup with his alma mater and how proud we are of John and his continued accomplishments,” said Brother William. “Under his leadership, the Blackhawks have taken home the Cup twice, and the Saint Mary’s community has celebrated with him every step of the way.”

The Saint Mary's community private viewing of the cup will be from 2:30 to 4:15 p.m. At this time, a limited number of SMU students, faculty, staff and alumni (and their immediate families) will have the opportunity for an up-close photo with the cup. Wristbands will be distributed at 2 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis at the Plaza entrance into the Toner Student Center nearest Campus Safety. You are welcome to begin lining up at 1:30 p.m. Students are encouraged to obtain permission from faculty if this event conflicts with class schedules. Everyone must bring their SMU ID cards.

Everyone is then invited to a public rally from 4:30 to 5 p.m. in Gostomski Fieldhouse — during which McDonough will address the crowd and the Cup will be on display.

Following the rally, a limited number of attendees from the public will also have an opportunity to take pictures with the Stanley Cup from 5 to 7 p.m., in the fieldhouse. Due to time constraints with the Cup, only those with wristbands will have the opportunity for an up-close photo. Wristbands will be given out beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the Hall of Fame room in the Gostomski Fieldhouse. The public is invited to begin lining up in the Hall of Fame room at 1:30 p.m.

Saint Mary’s volunteers will direct attendees on where to park and line up. Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances, the schedule is subject to change.