The Frank Smith Legacy Campaign
Coach Frank Smith’s name is synonymous with UBC Football as the longest-tenured and most successful coach in the program’s history. Hard work, the desire to win and the ability to spot and attract football talent were Smith’s strengths during his 21 seasons as head coach. From 1974 to 1994, Smith led UBC to a school-record eight Shrum Bowl victories over SFU, five Canada West Hardy Trophy victories and four CIAU Vanier Cup National Championship appearances, winning UBC’s first-ever Vanier Cup in 1982 and another in 1986. Smith didn’t just transform UBC into one of the most respected and successful programs in Canada; he sent 47 players to the CFL and instilled a foundation of success that Thunderbird Football alumni still remember to this day.
Frank Smith’s ability to turn great players into great people has left an indelible mark on UBC Football. UBC Athletics & Recreation has partnered with UBC Football to celebrate this legacy through the launch of the Frank Smith Legacy Campaign. You can honour Frank Smith by making a donation to the Legacy Campaign. Every gift will go directly towards one of two main funds, making it easy for all alumni and supporters to contribute to the future success of the UBC Football program.
"Most recognize Coach Frank Smith’s success with wins and losses, but when you look at the careers and lives of those athletes who benefited from his mentorship you see another measure of his greatness. It fitting that UBC Football honour his name with a lasting testament and build on his incredible legacy with this campaign."
Blake Nill
Head Coach, UBC Football
How to Support the Campaign
Make an Impact Now
The Frank Smith Legacy Impact Fund will give UBC Football the ability to address immediate needs that will have a profound impact on the program. This fund supports student-athlete scholarships and coaching, with a focus on addressing these priorities today. We welcome gifts of any size, including monthly donations, to help our student-athletes thrive on and off the field as they work to bring home a Vanier Cup.
Frank Smith, the winningest coach in UBC Football history, built a legacy of excellence. Let’s continue his winning tradition by ensuring the team has the tools they need to reach their full potential in both their sport and studies. You can make a donation of any amount by clicking on the
"donate now" button below.
Create a Legacy with UBC Football
Endowments provide stable, long-term funding that builds a strong foundation for UBC Football. If you are interested in supporting an existing endowment or establishing a new endowment to support the program – whether through scholarships, coaching, or other key areas – we would welcome the opportunity to discuss how you can create a lasting legacy.
To explore this opportunity, please contact Harvey Hubball, Associate Director of Development and Alumni Engagement at
harvey.hubball@ubc.ca for more information.
Be a part of something transformational. Your support is an investment in remarkable student-athletes and future young leaders and coaches. All funds raised after August 1st, 2024 will be recognized under the Frank Smith Legacy Campaign.
