More than 250 people gathered at the University of British Columbia to honour the life and legacy of iconic football coach Frank Smith. At the request of the Smith family, longtime friend and former UBC Thunderbird David Sidoo served as MC for the celebration, and he shared that he was honoured to be asked to help commemorate a coach who meant so much to so many.

The room was filled with former and current athletes, university staff, coaches, and family members. Every person in attendance shared a connection to Coach Smith, a man known not only for building strong football teams, but for building strong people. Throughout the evening, guests reflected on the lessons he taught through sport: resilience, discipline, loyalty, and pride in representing the blue and gold.

In his opening remarks, David Sidoo spoke about the lifelong impact of Coach Smith. He highlighted how Smith believed in young athletes even before they believed in themselves and how that belief became a turning point in many lives. The stories shared reminded everyone that Coach Smith measured success by the character of his players and their commitment to each other.

The evening closed with an open mic that invited guests to share stories and memories, each message painting a vivid picture of the coach who shaped so many lives. The legacy of Frank Smith lives on through every athlete he believed in, every program he strengthened, and every person he inspired. His influence remains deeply rooted in the hearts of all who had the privilege to learn from him.