Iconic Calgary Flames announcer Peter Maher dead at 79

Legendary Calgary Flames broadcaster Peter Maher passed away at the age of 79. The team paid tribute to Maher, stating that his impact went far beyond the broadcast booth. He was a dedicated advocate for the Calgary Flames, a generous community member, and a man who genuinely loved the sport. Maher had been the voice of the Flames on radio broadcasts for over three decades, starting in 1980 and continuing until the 2013-14 NHL season.

He was present on the broadcast as the Flames claimed their sole Stanley Cup victory in 1989. Maher expressed in his retirement news conference that it was better to leave something you love too early than to leave it too late. During his career, Maher made numerous significant contributions, including being inducted into the NHL Hockey Hall of Fame as a media honoree in 2006 and winning the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award.

Born in Campbellton, New Brunswick, Maher was also a member of the New Brunswick and Alberta Sports Halls of Fame. Apart from his work with the Calgary Flames, Maher served as the voice for the Vancouver Olympics hockey broadcast for Sportsnet in 2010. His unique catchphrases "Yeah baby" and "You can put it in the win column" were often heard after every Flames victory.

The press level at Scotiabank Saddledome, the Flames' home until 2026-27, features a broadcast booth named in his honor. Each year, the Peter Maher Award is presented to the player who best exemplifies sincerity, integrity, dedication, and respect, chosen by local media.