“I try to instill in my kids that they can’t be quitters – never quit – and that’s how I feel right now. I’ve been handed this death sentence but I’m looking for a pardon.”
– Don Smith, Oct. 03
Legendary coach Don Smith lost a one-year battle with lung cancer on Monday, and he will be greatly missed in the boxing community. Boxing Ontario and its members would like to extend its condolences to Mrs. Smith, the family and friends of Don, and his boxers at Triumph Boxing Club in Peterborough.
Don Smith had coached kids in boxing since 1969 and led many to Provincial titles. He also managed several boxing clubs including Midtown Boxing in the 1980’s and Liftlock Boxing Club since 2000. Eastern Regional Director Jack Ireland, who worked alongside Don from 1979 to 1983 at Midtown, recognized Don as one of the founding members of Boxing Ontario and a very good trainer and knowledgable coach.
Last May Coach Smith was diagnosed with lung cancer and the doctors told him that a “fit man” would have eight months to live. He proved that he wasn’t a quitter either and fought through intense chemotherapy treatments for over a year. Don Smith passed away at the age of 74.
