Category: Athlete

Inducted: Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Place of Birth: St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

Great performances in five sports at the turn of the century had Robert Simms elected to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame.

From the late 1800´s to the early 1900´s he was outstanding in hockey, track and field, soccer, rowing and cricket and set an excellent example for competitors and spectators with his displays of sportsmanship.

A hockey career that lasted from 1898 to 1911 had him lead the Feildians to the 1901 Hunter Trophy as St. John´s senior champions while he was still in school. He played a major role when Feildians won the 1906 Boyle Trophy, again as senior champions.

In soccer, he was a leader when Feildians won the 1906 Charity Cup and in 1907 when the team took the St. John´s senior crown.

From 1903 to 1909, Robert Simms enjoyed exceptional success in a wide range of track meets as a high hurdler and in mid-distance events. He was second in the 1907 20-mile race walking competition.

Working at Bowring´s all his life, he rowed successfully for the company in many mercantile races at the St. John´s Regatta. He was an ardent angler and dedicated hunter until his death in 1948.

In recognition of his excellent career in five sports, Robert Simms was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame October 20, 1978.