Athletics and Recreation mourn loss of former cross country/track coach Brent McFarlane

The Department of Athletics and Recreation is deeply saddened by the loss of one of their most accomplished and well-known coaches, Brent McFarlane (BSc '73) after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

"Brent was a tremendous person and coach and paved a bright future for both our cross-country and track and field programs here at the University of Waterloo," commented director of athletics and recreation, Roly Webster.

"He has left an ever-lasting impression on our department and we are truly thankful for everything he has done for the Warriors and beyond. Our sincere condolences go out to his entire family during this difficult time."

McFarlane, an alumni of Waterloo, was the head coach of the Warriors track and cross country teams from 1989-2000, reaching the pinnacle in 1996 where he guided the women's cross country team to both a Ontario Women's Interuniversity Athletic Association (OWIAA) and Canadian Interuniversity Athletic Union (CIAU) Championship.

That was Waterloo's first national title in twenty years. That same year he was named the OWIAA and CIAU Coach of the Year. He was also the recipient of Waterloo's Coach of the Year Awards in 1991 and 1997 presented at the annual year-end banquet.

McFarlane has coached more than 30 national teams, including four Canadian Olympic teams, serving as head coach for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia.

McFarlane was always regarded as a highly scientific coach who works with athletes on every details of their mechanics and training and went on to write more than 500 articles on biomechanics, speed, and strength. He also published a pair of books; 'The Science of Hurdling and Speed' and 'The Science of SAC (Speed-Agility-Conditioning).

McFarlane also served as a volunteer coach locally for more than 38 years with the Kitchener-Waterloo Track and Field Association. Athletes from his training group have produced 22 Canadian records, 37 provincial records and 40 national champions.

McFarlane was inducted into Waterloo's Hall of Fame on April 20, 2002 and in 2005 the Brent McFarlane Track and Field Endowment Fund was established to enhance the track and field program at UW. In 2007, Brent was recognized as one of 50 University of Waterloo Alumni for his outstanding commitment to the University at the 50th Anniversary Alumni Awards.

"Our sport across North America has lost an incredible man who will forever be remembered for his sense of humour, knowledge and passion for the athletes and track and field itself," said current head coach of track, Kate Bickle-Ferth.

"Brent paved the way for the track program at Waterloo and always showed interest in every single athlete, no matter their skill level. He was a huge part of why I chose Waterloo and I am forever grateful for what he has done for the program and myself. Brent will be deeply missed."

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 173 Lourdes St. Waterloo, Ontario on Saturday, April 13th at 10:00am with reception to follow at the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the Family is asking for donations to the Brent McFarlane Scholarship at the University of Waterloo.

Arrangements entrusted to the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Homes-Waterloo Chapel 617 King St. N. Waterloo 519.888.7700. Condolences online at www.grahamgiddyfh.com.

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