The end of an era

by Michael Hugall

After a long tenure with the University of Windsor track and field team, head coach Dennis Fairall has decided to step down due to health related reasons.

Fairall is regarded by many as one of the best track and field coaches in not only Ontario but all of Canada. In 29 years Fairall won 25 Canadian Interuniversity Sport championships, 46 Ontario University Athletic conference championships and 65 combined CIS and OUA coach of the year awards.

His coaching methods bred competitors such as Noelle Montcalm, and Pan-American Games silver medalist, Melissa Bishop. Fairall provided a legacy that many competitors will not soon forget.

“He’s one of those people you want to work your ass off for,” said former Pentathlon competitor Jesse Drennan. “He never put pressure on us…we knew we were lucky to have someone with his knowledge.”

Drennan said he recalls a specific time where Fairall influenced him to perform to his personal best.

“I was a captain in my second year, ranked fifth or sixth in the Canadian standings,” said Drennan. “I had the race of my life and when I got back to the side he put his arm around me and said ‘you were unbelievable.’”

Drennan said it was the recognition that he never expected but made him proudest.

Without Fairall the Windsor Lancers turn to field and events coach Brett Lumley to continue the success of last years’ program which was ranked in the CIS top five.

“Dennis has instilled some very strong influences on the team,” said Lumley. “The bar is set high .. but we are hopeful.”

Lumley joined the coaching staff in 1998 and since has been a major contributor in producing talent onto the jumps and multi-events stage. This past year Lumley was awarded the Petro Canada Coaching Excellence Award for his work with Stefanie Reid.

Lumley said his motto “Hard work gives you results,” has not changed since he began coaching.

“That’s the same message Dennis has always given the athletes,” said Lumley. “You be humble and you just let everything show on the track.”

During Lumley’s career his athletes have achieved great success with him as a coach guiding them to 32 All-Canadian and four All-American honours.

Drennan, now working with Brooks Canada, believes the program is in good hands with their acting head coach.

“He is such a technician,” said Drennan. “So driven for the best performance.”

Fairall leaves behind a legacy, with his most recent accomplishment being a men’s track and field first-place finish at last years CIS national championships.