Chaplain’s Corner: Fr. Pete McCormick

“I genuinely mean it, from the fiber of my being: What has allowed my priesthood to be as joyful as it is, is because of the Notre Dame students.”
—Rev. Peter McCormick, C.S.C.

We are proud to feature Rev. Peter McCormick, C.S.C., as the first chaplain in our newest series, Chaplain’s Corner, which spotlights those who serve the hearts and minds of student-athletes most closely. Team chaplains are essential figures in Notre Dame Athletics. Your support of the Rockne Athletics Fund makes their roles possible.

Assistant vice president for Campus Ministry. Holy Cross priest. FP. Men’s basketball chaplain.

Fr. Pete McCormick was destined to become the men’s basketball team chaplain. A youth player himself, Fr. Pete officiated youth league and high school basketball, then later coached fifth- and sixth-grade basketball throughout his undergraduate career. Even before chaplainship, students like Sarah Cahalan ’14 describe him as wearing “the sleeves of his black shirts rolled to the elbow, ready at any time to shoot hoops or talk pop culture.”

“A chaplain serves as a steady reminder of the presence and love of Jesus Christ in the midst of all that student-athletes do—on and off the court. At Notre Dame, we believe our talents are gifts meant to be used for the glory of God and the good of others. A chaplain helps bring that belief to life. Just as coaches, trainers, and counselors form the physical and emotional foundation for our student-athletes, a chaplain helps tend to their spiritual lives.” — Rev. Peter McCormick, C.S.C.

A native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Fr. Pete holds degrees from Grand Valley State University and Notre Dame. Two years after entering the Moreau Seminary, he professed his first vows in the Congregation of Holy Cross. He was ordained a Holy Cross priest in 2007 and became chaplain of the men’s basketball team in 2010.

Known for his people-first personality, Fr. Pete’s three decades at Notre Dame have been as vibrant as the Holi colors he danced through in April 2023. He’s officiated alumni weddings, worked the decks as DJ McSwish, and delights fans every Saturday when he’s featured on the jumbotron at football games.

Q&A with Fr. Pete

What is a favorite memory from serving as the basketball team chaplain?
One moment that stands out is celebrating with the team after we won the ACC Tournament in 2015. Confetti rained down, championship hats were passed around, and I even got to help cut down one of the nets. It was an unforgettable experience. But more than the moment itself, I was filled with pride in what the team had accomplished—the countless hours of preparation, the adversity they overcame, and the friendships they built. That victory was about so much more than a trophy.

Did you play basketball growing up?
Yes, I played all the way through high school. I loved the game, but let’s just say there wasn’t much market for a slow-footed power forward after graduation. Still, those years gave me a deep appreciation for the sport and the kind of commitment it demands.

If you were on the Notre Dame team, what position would you most like to play?
Honestly? I’d love to be a stretch four—the kind who can be a threat down low while also hitting a few threes each game. But realistically, I think my best contribution would still be from the bench, cheering on the guys and offering a steady presence. I’ll leave the high-flying plays to the real athletes.

Notre Dame student-athletes become champions in competition as they are formed in mind, body, and spirit. This level of commitment to holistic development—this care for the whole person—is distinctly Notre Dame, and it’s thanks in great part to your ongoing generosity. Thank you.

Follow Fr. Pete on Instagram: @petecsc