Claxton picked for Speirs 2012

Retired history teacher Tom Nicoll introduces his friend and coaching partner,Mitch.

School NEWS

Founder’s DAY

Unveiling the official Speirs Medal portrait by Tom Königsthal ’74,from left: Tom Nicoll,Steve’s wife,Sheila,and Steve Mitchell.

from Canadian Accredited Independent Schools and the Canadian Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Two years ago he founded the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame

“The athletic fixture that is closest to my heart ... is the annual Terry Fox Run,” he said. Inspired by his mother’s death from cancer at age 46, in 1985 Steve started the school on a program that has now raised $493,000 to fight cancer.

Steve thanked retired Headmaster Will Mitchell for his “dedication, humanity, morality and courage,” as well as current Headmaster Hal Hannaford for his “inspiring new philosophy of education.”

He also thanked retired history teacher Tom Nicoll, who was his coaching partner and close friend for 24 years. Steve also paid tribute to the school’s new athletic staff who, he said will “lead Selwyn House athletes into the future.”

All these accolades were interspersed with anecdotes that frequently had the Founder’s Day crowd roaring with laughter.

“I owe Selwyn House a lot for allowing me the opportunity to lead our phys-ed programs and athletes into the 21st century,” he said. “I am proud of our programs, students, and coaches, as well as our reputation on or off the field as a firstclass institution. I am honored by this award in more ways than I can express.” ■

Claxton succeeded by Denham,picked for Speirs Medal 2012

It was announced in June that Ted Claxton ’73 (left) will receive the 2012 Speirs Medal in November 2012. Ted has stepped down as chairman of the SHA Board of Directors,a post he held from 2007 till 2011.He became a board member in 1995. Ted will be replaced as Board Chair by Michael Denham (right),who was elected to the Board in November of 2006.