Erwin Swangard (11 May 1908 – 5 May 1993) was a German-born journalist.^[1][2] Swangard Stadium is named after him.

Biography

Swangard was born in Munich, Germany in 1908.^[2] He emigrated to Canada in 1930.^{[3] [4]}

As a journalist, he covered the 1936 Olympic Games for the Vancouver Sun and the Toronto Globe.^[3][4] From 1951 to 1959, he undertook various editorial roles at the Vancouver Sun, concluding as managing editor.^[3]

In sports development, Swangard founded the Tournament of Soccer Champions in British Columbia, which expanded from 70 to 2,500 teams.^[3] He also contributed to the inception of the BC Lions and was instrumental in establishing Swangard Stadium in Burnaby's Central Park in 1969.^[3]

Between 1976 and 1989, Swangard served at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), during which the event underwent significant changes.^[3] For his community efforts, he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Award in 1987 and became a Member of the Order of Canada in 1989.^[3]

References