In the words of 1966 Physical Education graduate Roger McKay, “I have a lot to thank UBC for.” Prior to his 30 year career in teaching and coaching, Roger benefitted from UBC life, taking his courses from great teachers, being a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity plus playing briefly for the UBC Braves J.V. basketball team under the coaching of the legendary, colourful, Peter Mullins. In addition, Roger received the top student award for the Phys. Ed. graduating class of 1966.
At Oliver BC’s Southern Okanagan High School, Roger commenced in 1966 his career as a teacher, counsellor and coach also serving as the school’s Vice Principal from 1982 until retiring in 1996. During those years he was also instrumental in forming one of BC’s most successful basketball camps as well as sports leagues for youngsters, among the reasons the South Okanagan has done so well in the sport of basketball.
Meanwhile Roger’s son, Spencer, has been named UBC Thunderbird basketball’s Assistant Coach. During the late 1980s and early 1990s Spencer was one of Canada’s best university basketball players, benefitting from his dad’s coaching and sport camps. Raised in Oliver, Spencer, while starring at the University of Victoria, was five times selected Canada West All-Star and three times All-Canadian. He spent 16 years playing pro basketball in eight countries around the world. Even though Spencer was a thorn in UBC’s side while with U. Vic., he, through his father, has roots in UBC and in War Memorial Gym, bringing to the Blue & Gold today, his experience and expertise.
Written by Fred Hume, UBC Historian
