Category: Builder

Inducted: Thursday, July 17, 2014

Murray Fudge owns a tremendous coaching career within provincial athletics. He has been instrumental in the development and maintenance of athletic programs in Central Newfoundland for many years.

From 1976 to 1995 he provided exceptional leadership and successful coaching to many athletes in Central Newfoundland especially those at Smallwood Academy in Gambo. Despite a relatively small base of students, athletics thrived under his guidance and for many years Gambo was a force in provincial school athletics.

He earned the coaching service award from School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador in 2006 and 2007 as he instilled the technical aspects of athletics in his students and demonstrated the value of hard work, discipline and dedication. He is the recipient of School Sports Newfoundland and Labrador honour award for long dedication to school sports.

Renowned as a throws coach, he led provincial teams at the 1985 and 1993 Canada Games. From 1986 to 1995 he assisted at provincial track and field competitions.

He was a founding member of the annual Gambo track meet that attracted upwards of 400 entries. He was meet director for provincial Special Olympics track meets and winter games that were hosted by Gambo, and is a member of the Smallwood Academy coaching staff that won 16 consecutive district track meets.

Numerous athletes whom he coached set records in shot, javelin and discus events. His assistance was important in the selection of Newfoundland and Labrador members for the 2008 and 2012 Canada Games, and he continues to volunteer with many events in Central Newfoundland, especially in Gambo.

From 1987 until the track was opened he was technical adviser for the Gambo track committee, and his work included securing funding for the construction of the Lions Jim Eastman track and field complex in Gambo, the only track in Central Newfoundland.

Retired and living in Gander, he continues his contributions to athletics, officiating at events such as the Timex Commander Gander road races, the Gander triathlon, provincial Special Olympics summer and winter games and with various athletic projects at Gander Academy.