Now Accepting Applications for the Tom Fairbairn Memorial Scholarship
Tom Fairbairn passed away on March 12, 2012 — he was a long time hockey fan and dedicated many, many hours to Stratford Minor Hockey.
Tom Fairbairn's contribution to Minor Hockey in Stratford cannot be measured in hours, days or even years — he is considered by many to be SMHA's “Grandfather of Hockey”. His name has a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto for his unending volunteerism. He was a coach, a director, a president, a mentor and a friend to anyone who needed one. Everybody at the rink knew him and he was respected by young and old.
He was the “go to guy” for several decades or more. He knew all the rules. His memory was impeccable. He spent time every day at the rink, knew all the kids by number, if not by name. Because he saw the bigger picture, all the coaches would seek him out in the minor hockey room after a game and ask his opinion on how they, as coaches, could improve a play or player or entire team. He always made time to mentor coaches when asked.
He was there for only two reasons. He loved the game itself and he was there for the kids – all the kids!
He made sure all players had safe equipment and started a program where all players were supplied with the best hockey pants available. He spent his off time in the summer cataloguing the pant program, inspecting every pair for a needed wash or repair.
He championed the ideal that all players respect the game and each other.
For these reasons and others too many to count, Stratford Minor Hockey created an annual scholarship in Tom's name: The Tom Fairbairn Memorial Scholarship. Click the link on our HOME PAGE for details on how to apply for the scholarship. Deadline for application is February 28, 2014.