Peter DeBoer Coaching New Jersey Devils in Stanley Cup Final

Seventeen years after graduating from Windsor Law, Peter DeBoer is leading the New Jersey Devils in the Stanley Cup Finals as head coach. 

Before the playoffs began, Peter returned to Windsor Law in April to speak to students about his new role as head coach.

Peter DeBoer(LL.B. '95) with SLS President Robert Onley (JD '12)

Despite the Devils’ sixth place finish, the team battled their way to the top of the NHL’s Eastern Conference, securing a spot in the Finals on May 25^th.

During his graduating year of law school, DeBoer coached the Detroit Junior Red Wings.  He went on to coach in the Ontario Hockey League for 13 years, leading the Kitchener Rangers to a Memorial Cup victory in 2003. 

Before becoming the head coach of the New Jersey Devils on July 19, 2011, he coached the Florida Panthers for three seasons. 

DeBoer was asked about how his legal education influences his coaching. 

He credits Windsor Law for honing his advocacy skills and sharpening his ability to persuade his players towards a common goal.  “I have to inspire them to dig deep and believe in my vision for the team.”

He also said, “I learned more from any of my failures than I did from my successes.”