top of page
A Life In Sport
A blog by Ian Hyde-Lay
About
ABOUT
Ian Hyde-Lay is a teacher who lives and works in Victoria, BC. He has been heavily involved in sport his entire life, as a player, coach, referee and administrator.
All Posts
Six
It took place decades ago, but, in retrospect, it might be the most memorable practice I ever attend. The venue is not particularly...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Jan 11, 20224 min read
Brian's Song
A global pandemic enters its third year. Like a runaway locomotive, it shows few signs of slowing down. Athletic events are dramatically...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Jan 4, 20224 min read
I Was (Planning To Be) There
January 8, 2020. Just after 7pm at the Victoria Airport. One last hug, pulling him close. Son Derek shows his passport and boarding pass...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Dec 30, 20214 min read
Sense of Humour
A few weeks ago, somewhat out of the blue, I receive a note from a friend. I learn that an Australian, Andrew Cole, is to win the...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Dec 30, 20214 min read
The Joy of Team
A late afternoon some ten days ago. I arrive at a school, tasked with collecting an athletics trophy from the PE office. A vicious rain...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Dec 19, 20214 min read
Rock and a Hard Place
04.45. The bright red digits on the bedside clock stare back at me. Normally a sound sleeper, I toss and turn. Memories, emotions,...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Nov 17, 20214 min read
Remembering "Weary"
Down Under, March 2018. I arrive in the Capital Territory, the manager of a high school rugby tour group. As part of our itinerary, we...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Nov 8, 20214 min read
Lost in Translation
Rugby, a rainy evening in southwest France, some twenty-five years ago. I am the referee. The game, a Top 14 local derby, is only a few...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Oct 28, 20214 min read
Not the Lone Ranger
Victoria. March 1976. An impressionable 18-year old, I sit mesmerized, high up in the bleachers. Down below, on the floor of the McKinnon...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Oct 20, 20215 min read
An Orphan
A coaching career stretches into its 40th year. A mixture of rugby and basketball, mostly at the high school level. Add in various...
Ian Hyde-Lay
Oct 11, 20214 min read
bottom of page