Defying the odds at the 41st Annual Marjorie Ward Lecture
Coach Brian Dobie shares stories of resilience, belief and the power of opportunity at the 41st Annual Marjorie Ward Lecture
On March 11, 2025, St John’s College hosted the 41st Annual Marjorie Ward Lecture, a series that has been focused on Canada, and in particular, Western Canada. It was established in 1980 to honour the College’s long-standing Registrar, Marjorie Ward, on her retirement.
Surrounded by his past and present players, friends, and passionate football fans, Coach Brian Dobie took to the stage—not to boast of his own achievements, but to celebrate the remarkable journeys of the athletes he had the privilege of coaching. As the evening drew to a close, one thing became undeniably clear: nothing is impossible!
From the moment he began speaking, Brian Dobie’s selflessness and genuine love for his players shone through. He shared stories about the lives he had watched transform, the hurdles overcome, and the belief of potential of those who had walked through the doors of the Bison Football Program.
One of the most powerful stories he shared was that of Maya Turner, who was present at the lecture. He recalled the first time he came across her film—initially keeping it on the back burner as it wasn’t traditional game footage, however, evidently, her film stood out above all others. Turner was brought into tryouts, going up against their graduating kicker, and time and time again, she outperformed him. Dobie made sure to highlight that Maya Turner wasn’t just good for a girl—she was flat out good. Today, she holds her place in history as the first woman ever to play and score in a U SPORTS football game.
Another inspiring story that resonated deeply with the audience was that of Nick Thomas. Also in attendance, Thomas’s journey to the Bisons was nothing short of incredible. He grew up in the foster care system, moving through ten different foster homes after his father was deported and his mother was unable to care for him and his sister. Initially skeptical about recruiting from community football, Dobie was won over by Thomas’s film. But the real challenge came when Thomas stepped into his office one day, ready to quit. He believed he was “too dumb” for university and convinced he wouldn’t be able to grasp Coach Pierre’s defensive drills. Dobie refused to let him give up, urging him to persevere. That perseverance paid off—Nick Thomas is now an Academic All-Canadian and a First-Team All-Canadian.
While the lecture had its deeply emotional moments, it was also filled with laughter. One sentiment that Dobie emphasized was what makes being a Bison so unique: this university cares. He recounted the criticisms he’s heard from others, who say, “You guys accept everyone.” His response was simple yet impactful: “Yes, and shouldn’t we? Shouldn’t we give students opportunities to further their education?”
By the end of the night, every person in the room left inspired. Brian Dobie’s words weren’t just about football—they were about life, about perseverance, and about believing in the impossible. It was a privilege to have him at the Marjorie Ward Lecture, and an even greater privilege to witness the impact he has made on so many lives.