When Georgetown Prep’s hockey team takes the ice today, it does so as a well-established AA varsity program with a strong following, competitive talent, and a growing sense of tradition. More than three decades ago, however, the program began with a simple idea—and the determination of a small group of believers.

That idea belonged to Joey McCormick IV ’26’s father, Joe McCormick III ’91, a lifelong hockey fan and devoted Washington Capitals supporter. As a Prep student, he didn’t start playing hockey until his junior year, but as he watched high school programs begin to emerge across the region, he saw an opportunity. While most teams at the time were based in Columbia or Baltimore, nearby rivals DeMatha and Good Counsel had programs, and he believed Georgetown Prep could too. With the right people in place, that belief turned into action.

Several individuals played key roles in bringing Prep hockey to life. From the administrative side, school counselor Rick Robinson provided essential support. Kyran Kennedy, a New England native and lifelong hockey enthusiast working in the development office, became the program’s first coach. Financial support also came from within the family, as Joey’s grandfather, Bill McCormick, helped fund early team expenses. Members of the Prep community, including alumnus Jim Duke ’92, lent their time and energy as well.

For Joey, that legacy has become deeply personal. During his time in the program, he had the unique experience of playing alongside Matt Duke ’24, Jim Duke’s son, while both fathers watched from the stands—two generations connected by the same program they helped build.

“Seeing my dad build the program and stick with it has been very inspiring,” Joey said. “Being able to play the sport you love for your school is a gift.”

What began as a coincidence, playing on a team his father founded, has grown into something far more meaningful. As Joey has progressed through the program, he has come to understand the values, traditions, and expectations established by its founders. That understanding has pushed him to work harder, take pride in the program, and embrace his role as a leader on and off the ice.

The program itself has evolved dramatically since those early days. Hockey began as a club sport for its first two years before earning AA varsity status. Early practices were infrequent (and sometimes held at 6:00 a.m.) and many of the original players had never played hockey before. Most games were played in Baltimore, and the program relied on a handful of dedicated participants to survive.

Today, Prep hockey looks very different. The sport has grown significantly in the region, nearly every high school fields a team, and Georgetown Prep consistently attracts high-level players. The team competes against some of the best programs in the area, and home games at Cabin John Ice Rink draw spirited student crowds that bring energy and noise to the stands.

For Joey, the program’s growth reflects something even deeper than competitive success.
“My dad staying involved in the program for over thirty years shows the strength of the brotherhood he helped create,” he said. “It’s inspired me to make those same bonds with my teammates and to be a brother to them as well.”

More than a team, Prep hockey is a living legacy, one passed from generation to generation, built on commitment, community, and a shared love for the game.

Original GP Hockey Team 1991

Joey McCormick '26 with his parents, Ann Marie and Joe, after winning the 2025 IAC Championships

2025 alumni game - original team members: L-R Jim Duke ‘92, Kyran Kennedy (Original GP Hockey Coach), Joe McCormick ’91