Villanova Univeristy Athletics

A standout defensive end during his collegiate career, Jim Magee was known for his natural ability and being an effective pass rusher. He was a three-year starter on the Villanova defense in each of his varsity seasons from 1973-75. Magee graduated in 1975 and was inducted to the Varsity Club Hall of Fame in 1997.
 
When he arrived on campus as a freshman coming from Manhasset, N.Y., Magee sat out the 1972 season and tried out for a spot on the offensive line. He looked good in spring drills the following year though and switched back to defense entering the 1973 season. Magee was among the Wildcats leading tacklers and the team had its best season of his career defensively during his sophomore campaign.
 
Villanova’s defense forced 39 turnovers and gave up fewer than 20 points per game during the 1973 season, with home wins against Cincinnati and rival Delaware among the highlights of the year. In Magee’s junior season, the Wildcats forced 44 turnovers in 11 games and Magee recorded the only interception of his career.
 
Following his junior season, Magee missed part of the spring workouts in 1975 but returned in preseason for his final collegiate campaign. The defense was up to its usual strong play that year and forced 39 turnovers on the season. In all, Magee helped Villanova’s defensive unit force 122 turnovers in his three varsity seasons.
 
During his scholastic playing days, Magee was a standout Holy Cross High in Manhasset, N.Y. where he earned all-league and All-Long Island honors. His father had been a college basketball player at Fordham and Magee was one of 13 children. He majored in Biology at Villanova.