LOSS OF A LEGEND

It is with great sadness that the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) announces the passing of retired George Brown College athletic director Alex Barbier. After a courageous battle with cancer, Alex passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in his home, on Wednesday, July 6, 2011.

Alex Barbier began his association with the OCAA serving as Athletic Director at George Brown College, a position he held for 30 years. Barbier’s service to the OCAA spanned ten years in a variety of roles. He served a term on the OCAA Executive Committee as Treasurer from 1989-91. Barbier was always an active participant at OCAA Directors’ meetings and annual meetings. He was a strong advocate for women’s sports and ensured equal opportunities for smaller colleges or those with smaller programs.

Over his career, Barbier served as a convenor for a number of sports including: men’s basketball regional convenor from 1974 to 1977; women’s basketball convenor from 1977 to 1980; women’s basketball senior convenor 1980-81; and men’s volleyball convenor from 1992-93.  And for his contribution to college athletics in Ontario, the OCAA awarded him their highest honour, induction into the OCAA Hall of Fame as a Builder in 2005.

Details for the memorial service for Alex Barbier:
Visitation: Thursday, July 7, 2-4pm and 7-9pm, Brampton Memorial Gardens
Service: Friday, July 8, 2011 @ 11:00am Brampton Memorial Gardens.

For directions and contact info, go to
http://www.bramptonmemorial.com/default.asp?mn=1.3.4702