VICTORIA – Lynne Beecroft, a 15-time U SPORTS national champion, an Olympian, and a four-time hall-of-famer, received yet another well-deserved accolade—a field named in her honour.

On Saturday, October 21, the University of Victoria Department of Athletics and Recreation officially dubbed the CARSA field hockey pitch the Lynne “Buzz” Beecroft field, commemorating her contributions as one of the most decorated coaches in Canadian university sport history.

A crowd of approximately 250 people gathered on the UVic field hockey turf for the official proceedings, which began with a welcome to the territory by UVic President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Kevin Hall, followed by a drumming from UVic alumnae Kolette and Judy Cristante and concluded with the unveiling of the new sign in Beecroft’s name.

“It is truly an honour to have this field named after me, I’m pretty sure I could have just pulled up a bed and had this as my second home for many years,” said Beecroft in her acceptance speech. “Honestly, as much as it’s a legacy to have this field in my name, what I have loved the most was just coaching and playing with everyone here, so thank you for this incredible honour.”

A nod to the past inspiring the next generation

Beecroft’s legacy is often summed up by the numbers. As a coach, she amassed 34 national medals (15 of which are gold), coached nearly 40 athletes who have gone on to represent Canada and over 70 All-Canadians, finishing with an impressive overall coaching record of 340-98-89 (wins-losses-ties).

With a career spanning over four decades, Beecroft’s footprint is, quite simply, extraordinary. Her remarkable journey is not only characterized by countless achievements and accolades, but the profound impact she has made on her athletes, colleagues, the community, and the sport. Now, this legacy is set to be permanently enshrined where the journey truly began.

“Buzz has done a masterful job of tapping the wellsprings of potential of her athletes. Every time a Vikes athlete has the opportunity to step on this field, they will be a part of her legacy,” said Krista Thompson, UVic women’s field hockey head coach.

The Lynne “Buzz” Beecroft Field is a fitting tribute to a coach whose influence transcends medals and statistics. It stands as a testament to her lasting impact on the sport and all those fortunate enough to have experienced her passion.

Read more about how Lynne Beecroft’s retirement marks the end of an era: https://govikesgo.com/news/2023/1/16/general-lynne-beecrofts-retirement-marks-the-end-of-an-era.aspx

Stories written by Kelley O’Gradey, Vikes Communications (https://www.govikesgo.com)
Photo Credit: Armando Tura