The Calgary soccer community is mourning the loss of Coach Noel Smith, 45, a longtime Coach and Mentor, who inspired young athletes for over two decades.
Noel, who devoted most of his life to coaching, and most recently coached at McKenzie United Soccer Club.
He also spent time with Calgary Chinooks Soccer Club, NSDSC, Calgary Southwest United, Calgary Foothills Soccer Club, and Calgary Glenmore FC.
In recognition of his contributions, which include youth development, leadership, mentorship, and most importantly, being a great human being, the Calgary Minor Soccer Association (CMSA) will hold a moment of silence before every U10-U19 match this weekend.
Tributes Pour in for the Coach
MUSC Performance Ground will also host a Night of Remembrance in honor of the late coach on Tuesday, November 4.
“All members of our soccer community are welcome to attend. Together, we’ll remember a remarkable coach, mentor, and friend,” wrote MUSC Calgary.
The tributes and condolences, as well as the outpouring of love on social media, have also reflected the depth of his legacy.
One parent shared, “Coach Noel was one of the first coaches who always inspired my son in his soccer career and supported his passion. He will be remembered for his devotion. RIP Noel.”
Another wrote, “RIP Noel, thank you for being a champ to my girls. You always saw the good. They will always remember you.”
Friends and colleagues also reflected on their time with the coach. “My time at Calgary Chinooks Soccer Club was my most cherished time in my career… Without question, the most lasting impact was my friendship with Noel. If there was ever a man who gave more than he asked, it was Noel, wrote an individual of the soccer community.
Another individual added, “Another remembered a recent encounter, saying, “Noel and I had the most serendipitous meeting in Edmonton just a few weeks ago. We reminisced about coaching together at Chinooks. Thinking of Noel’s family and everyone who is reeling from such a profound loss.”
As the tributes poured, Becca Smith, on behalf of the Smith family, wrote,
“we thank Calgary Soccer Association, Mackenzie United Soccer Academy, and all the amazing clubs Noel has worked with these past 20 years, his friends and colleagues, players and entire Soccer community for the many incredibly meaningful tributes acknowledging Noels loss as well as his talent, passion for the game, unforgettable dry humor and contribution to the game of soccer. Our hearts are broken having lost Noel and it means the world to Noels family to know he made such a difference To all the players and youth, please reach out to your parents for support along with counselling and available community resources to help you through this difficult time.”
He will be remembered not just as an extraordinary coach and mentor, but most importantly a great human being who inspired athletes and numerous individuals on and off the pitch.
