After less than one full season on the job, Dale Hunter has resigned his post as coach of the Washington Capitals amid a swirl of rumors that he was fired.

Hunter gave the news to owner George McPhee today, saying he feels his place is in Canada and that it’s “the right thing to do” at this time. The coach helped the Capitals earn a place in the playoffs, but they were ousted over the weekend by a loss to the New York Rangers, which some feel could be the reason for his sudden resignation. However, Hunter insists the move is motivated by a bit of homesickness.

“I’ve got a good thing going there with the family, so I’ll stay home,” he said.

Hunter was speaking of both his hockey family and his own family, since he owns the London Knights in Ontario, which is currently coached by his son and brother. No word yet on whether the Capitals have a replacement coach in mind.

The rumors are still making their way around the web, especially on Twitter: