A beloved coach at East York Collegiate Institute, Don Hibbert, took his last breath on September 11, 2025, at the age of 82.
His passing was announced on the school’s memorial page, which was updated on September 13, 2025, to include his name among the recent additions.
During his time at the East York Collegiate Institute, Don Hibbert worked as a gym teacher. Likewise, he also coached many teams in sports like track and field, hockey, soccer, and basketball.
Students remember him for his tireless efforts in helping young people enhance their skills.
One detail that stands out is a t-shirt Don Hibbert liked to wear with a saying that read, “I coach turkeys.”
A former student named Malcom Kelly, an author of SPROG and professor of sports journalism, shared his thoughts online on his passing.
Malcom Kelly described Don Hibbert as an important influence during his time at East York Collegiate. He wrote:
One of my high school track coaches has died. You develop a close relationship with someone who coaches you every day, and then, so often, don’t see them much again after graduating.
Malcom Kelly
Bless you, coach.
Likewise, another student, John Chivers, also took to his Facebook to share the heartbreaking news.
He wrote about checking the East York Collegiate Institute (EYCI) site on the morning of September 16, 2025, and feeling sad to learn that Mr. Hibbert, also known as Don, had passed away.
John described him as a teacher, gym teacher, and coach who led many teams at EYCI.
In the comment, two other students, named Lori Donaghy and Drew Hendry, wrote that they remembered him.
Lori wrote, “Awww, I loved him. He was my track coach.“
During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Hibbert’s friends and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Don Hibbert!
