Eric Broom had immense impact as a coach and educator in the Canadian hockey community
Field Hockey Canada is proud to induct Eric Broom in the Hall of Fame Builders Category for his extraordinary contributions to the sport. Broom’s career is distinguished by his profound impact as a coach and educator, earning him the title of a true “coach’s coach.” His dedication to field hockey is exemplified by his role in certifying and teaching coaches, as well as his leadership as the Coaching Director for both Field Hockey BC and Field Hockey Canada.
Broom’s journey began in Peterborough, England, where he was first introduced to field hockey in grammar school. Although his initial focus was on rugby, he quickly developed a passion for field hockey. After a brief stint in the British Army, Broom graduated from Loughborough University. Shortly thereafter, he was given a pivotal opportunity by Ray Williams, a former teammate, to assist in organizing the first-ever coaching courses for rugby.
Inspired by this experience, Broom worked with the Central Council of Physical Recreation for five years. Recognizing the need for further credentials to advance his career, he moved to Canada to secure a position at the University of British Columbia and pursue a degree, a decision that was instrumental in his professional development.
Upon learning of Broom’s arrival in Canada, Dr. Harry Warren noted his exceptional experience and invited him to travel across the country to set up coaching clinics for Canadian field hockey coaches. Broom accepted the challenge, and his dedication led him to organize 14 coaching clinics from Montreal to Vancouver, establishing himself as a leading figure in the field.
“I attended as many weekend and week-long coach education courses as I could. By the time I came to Canada, I had become known as the person with more certification courses than anyone else in the country,” said Broom.
Broom went on to serve as the national coach, BC provincial coach, and coach of the UBC Thunderbirds field hockey club. After a few years, he stepped away to further his academic career in the United States. His commitment to coaching development was further solidified with his involvement in creating the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) in 1974, which remains a benchmark for the Coaching Association of Canada. Broom’s contributions as a coach and administrator have impacted over 10,000 individuals, and he continued to support the sport well into the 2000s.
“I would love nothing more than to sit in an auditorium one day and have Eric as the guest of honour, reflecting on the generations of individuals and coaches he has influenced. That would be truly remarkable,” said Mark Saunders, Executive Director of Field Hockey BC.
Reflecting on his career, Broom values the profound impact of mentoring and coaching others. His role as a Course Conductor and Umpires’ Manager for Field Hockey Canada’s certification program exemplified his commitment to nurturing future talent. Even into the 2000s, Broom continued to contribute as a Coaching Director for both Field Hockey BC and Field Hockey Canada.
“I believe that positively influencing the development of coaches can significantly enhance the experience for countless players. It’s about equipping coaches to improve the experience for many others,” said Broom.
As Eric Broom is inducted into the Field Hockey Canada Hall of Fame, his legacy as a pioneering figure in coaching education is firmly established. His journey underscores the profound influence of passion, dedication, and mentorship, leaving a lasting impact on the world of field hockey.
