Gladwyn Scott, Manitoba's man for all seasons

Gladwyn Scott was a multi-sport star in football and hockey with the Brandon College Caps back in the 50s and early 60s. 

Dec. 13, 2016 

Scott reflects on his tenure with the Brandon College Caps

By Tyler Crayston
BU Athletic/Westman Journal

Gladwyn Scott’s legendary stature on the western Manitoba sports scene grew from humble roots and his tenure at Brandon College helped lay the foundation for his lasting legacy.

Scott was a multi-sport star in football and hockey with the Brandon College Caps. He played the 1953-54 season and returned for two more years from 1959-61.

“They were memorable and definitely a highlight. You take your courses and some you enjoyed and some of them you were happy when you were done. You always look forward to going to practices and playing games. It was a good situation for a small town country boy.”

Scott was a member of one of the most successful hockey teams in the history of the College Caps era in 1960-61. He helped the club capture the Southwest Hockey League’s regular season pennant with a 19-6 record.

He and his brother Glennis tied for third in team scoring with 47 points that year. The season was also highlighted by a 4-3 road win over the Saskatchewan Huskies.

The prestigious Jim Casey award was presented to Scott in his senior season and his College Caps career was impacted by iconic figures including Doug Clark, R.H. Doc Hannah and H. Stewart Perdue.

“They are very memorable in my life. My recollections at Brandon University were likely the best recollections,” Scott said.

Scott poured his heart and soul into the public school system for 60 years. He started teaching in Hamiota and later Carman. Scott also served as school division superintendent living in Souris and Warren.

He made sure sports were prominent in school and the community. Scott coached seven provincial championship teams in a five-year stint at Hamiota, including three titles in one season.

The Manitoba High Schools Athletic Association (MHSAA) was also co-founded by Scott.

“You were helping kids and hopefully teaching them skills and making them feel good about themselves.”

Scott’s contributions have been well recognized. He is a member of the Brandon University Sports Wall of Fame, the MHSAA Hall of Fame, the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, the Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame, the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

His long list of accolades is a reflection of a positive upbringing on a small farm in McConnell, Man.

“Our parents taught us to work hard and do whatever you could. His parents, Jim and Merle, provided a positive message and Gladwyn passed along those same words of wisdom to his children.

Scott’s son Rick is the head coach of the Dalhousie Tigers women’s volleyball team and is a former Atlantic University Sport coach of the year. Like father like son, he followed in Dad’s footsteps.

“My dad has had a huge influence on my life and in sports,” Rick said. “I’m very thankful and appreciative of having his guidance and leadership of the value of sports and the importance of making a difference in young people’s lives.”

Scott’s guidance is second nature thanks to the strong support he received growing up. It has led to a rewarding run as a role model in teaching, coaching and sports.

“If your parents and family are supportive that is going to be a big motivator. There is no doubt about it.”

Story courtesy of Tyler Crayston, BU Athletics