Frank Smith Thunderbird Award in Football
Frank Smith didn't just win championships over his decades as head coach of UBC Football, he instilled a foundation of success that UBC Football alumni still remember to this day. With his ability to turn great players into great people, UBC Football will continue Coach Smith's legacy and lessons through the creation of the Frank Smith Thunderbird Award in Football.
Many of UBC's greatest football achievements came with Coach Smith patrolling the sidelines. In 21 seasons between 1974 and 1994, Smith won two Vanier Cup national championships (including UBC's first in 1982), five Canada West league titles, and 126 games overall (Canada West, playoff and non-conference). He was also named CIAU coach of the year in 1978 and 1987.
While the on-field accolades will cement him as a legend in UBC Football, it's Coach Smith's impact off the field that he and his former players will always cherish. Building a foundation of accountability, teamwork, and discipline, Coach Smith had a strong influence in the development of many outstanding student athletes and takes tremendous pride in the lasting influence he had on his players.
"Frank Smith was a master recruiter, who could see a player's potential in high school, before they even began to fill out their frame; he also had an uncanny ability to sum up a player's character in a brief conversation. Thus, he filled his roster with athletic, coachable, team-oriented young men he could mold into champions - men he could 'go to war with. Most of his players would run through a wall for him, and that's why we'd like to initiate this athletic award in his name."
Jason (Mad Dog) Riley
1982 Vanier Cup Champion
UBC Football Alumni and supporters will have the opportunity to provide deserving student-athletes access to financial assistance in the form of scholarships and awards. By alleviating financial pressures while also recognizing their tremendous achievements, this support can enable them to truly excel. Your support will allow them to focus their full attention on their studies and commitment to being a UBC Thunderbird.
Be a part of something transformational. Your support is an investment in remarkable student-athletes and future young leaders and coaches.
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