A trailblazer for women's sports in Ontario and Canada, Mohawk College Hall of Fame women's basketball coach Earl Begg has passed away. He was 86.

Mr. Begg holds the Mohawk record for most wins with 316 victories in his brilliant career.

His teams won six OCAA Championships in 1981, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1990 and 1991. His teams also captured two national bronze medals in 1986 and 1990.

Mr. Begg was named OCAA Coach of the Year in 1987, 1990 and 1991, and was honoured by the CCAA as National Coach of the Year.

He is a member of the Mohawk Mountaineers, OCAA and Ontario Basketball Association Halls of Fame.

BEGG, Earl William Passed away in Hamilton on Friday, January 18, 2019 at the age of 86. Beloved husband of Helen (nee Daines) for 66 years. Loving father of Denise Begg, and dear brother of Sandra Horning Leng. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Dear friend of Bob and Laurie Cowell. Earl will be remembered by his community for his love of gardening and his enduring passion for basketball. Earl spent many years as Head Coach for the Mohawk College Women's Basketball Team, where he was awarded Coach of the Year many times over his 20 years there, and finally inducted in the OCAA Hall of Fame in 2003, and the Basketball Ontario Hall of Fame in 2006. He will be missed by many. A special thank-you to the Bayshore Nurses Donna, Lisa and Nora, the doctors and nurses of Ward 8 South at the Hamilton General Hospital and Dr. McMillan for their care. To honour Earl's wishes cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions to a charity of choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to SMITH'S FUNERAL HOME, 454 Highway #8 (east of Millen Road) STONEY CREEK (905-664-4222) www.smithsfh.com

Source: Mohawk Mountaineers