Gwen (Murphy) McCauley '83

Gwen Murphy McCauley, who hails from Oreland and Holy Martyrs Parish, was a standout field hockey player for the Lancers during her time on Royal Avenue.  She was a four-year starter and two-time All-Catholic player for McDevitt, which was not considered a Catholic League powerhouse at the time; remember that, “at the time.” 

Following her graduation, Gwen played collegiality for East Stroudsburg University before transferring to Temple University to complete her degree.

When she transferred to Temple, she re-engaged with the McDevitt field hockey program and served as the Lancers Head Coach from 1985 through 1990.  In her first year as head coach, she led the Lancers to their first ever Catholic League Playoffs and in 1986 and 1987 she took her Lancer teams all the way to the Championship game.  For these efforts, Gwen was recognized as the Montgomery County Field Hockey Coach of the Year in both 1986 and 1987.

Following her McDevitt coaching career, Gwen continued to coach field hockey for St. Luke’s CYO program.  While there, she coached both of her daughters who were recruited to play Division 1 field hockey in college.  During her 10 years at St. Luke’s, she coached many student-athletes who went on to play and star at Bishop McDevitt, Mount St. Joseph’s Academy, St. Basil’s Academy, and many other schools.

For twenty years, Gwen worked for a local investment advisory firm, and she now serves as Executive Director of the Manayunk Development Corporation, a non-profit organization focused on business and community development and engagement. 

Reflecting on her years as athlete and as coach, Gwen noted that her appreciation for Bishop McDevitt, and the foundation it provided to her and her athletes, grew larger and fonder during her time as head coach of the Lancers field hockey program. 

With thanks to her nominator and her sister, Tara Murphy, Class of 1988, please join our Athletic Hall of Fame as we welcome the Class of 1983’s Gwen Murphy McCauley.