Meet the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient for Professional Achievement
Celebrating Brian Dobie and his legacy of leadership and inspiration as a football coach
In the world of Canadian university football, few names resonate as deeply as Brian Dobie’s [BPE/74, Cert. Ed./75]. A 2025 inductee in the Football Manitoba Hall of Fame and a true Bison at the Centre, Brian’s 50-year coaching career including a 29-year tenure as head coach of the University of Manitoba Bisons Football team have left a permanent mark on the sport, the program, and the countless lives he has touched. This year, Brian is being honoured with the Distinguished Alumni Award in Professional Achievement, a fitting recognition for someone whose dedication, passion, and leadership have elevated not only the Bisons Football program but also the spirit of the university itself.
A career built on passion and perseverance
Brian’s journey with the Bisons began at a young age. “My dad took me to watch my first Bison Football game in 1968.” Brian recalls. Just a few years later Brian was on that same field, this time playing on the Bisons football team while he pursued his Bachelor of Physical Education degree in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management. After graduating, he embarked on a coaching career that would span decades and redefine excellence. His first coaching role was with the Churchill High School Bulldogs, where he led the team to three Winnipeg High School Football League (WHSFL) championships and solidified his reputation as a leader who could inspire greatness.
In 1996, Brian took the helm of the Bisons Football program, beginning a 29-year tenure that would make him the winningest coach in Bisons history. His dedication to scouting and recruiting has brought exceptional talent to the Bisons Football program, while his genuine care for each athlete and their families has created a foundation of trust and respect.
His accolades include six Canada West Coach of the Year awards, a U SPORTS Coach of the Year award, two U SPORTS National Championship appearances, and a coveted Vanier Cup title in 2007.
“It’s not just winning the Vanier Cup in 2007. It’s the process. It’s everything that led to it and what we went through to be up there. To me, this ring and that Vanier Cup championship quite literally symbolize the best of everything. It stands as a testament to all of our teams—those who have worked tirelessly to represent the University of Manitoba, both past and present,” reflects Brian.
Brian’s impact is evident in the success of his players. Under his guidance, 64 student-athletes were drafted by CFL teams, and two went on to play in the NFL. Many of his former players have also become coaches, carrying forward the lessons they learned from Brian through every province in the country, including four CFL coaches.
A legacy of leadership
What truly sets Brian apart is his unwavering commitment to his players. Beyond the wins and accolades, he fostered a family-like culture that prioritized personal growth and community. His tireless efforts in recruiting, fundraising, and mentorship have created a legacy of support that extends far beyond the field.
“Our ultimate goal is to develop these men and women. No question about it. Winning is a byproduct of the entire process.”
Brian’s dedication to building a thriving football program has been a cornerstone of his leadership. From the days when the team’s facilities included a tin shed locker room, Dobie’s vision for growth and excellence has driven every step forward. “It was a huge thing that happened for that stadium to get built on our campus. It elevated our program to new standards and exposed our athletes to a whole new level of professionalism. Our athletes understand their responsibility in passing that culture forward,” he emphasizes, highlighting the deep-rooted pride and forward-looking spirit that fuels the program. The milestone moment came with the opening of the new stadium on campus. Brian vividly recalls the electrifying atmosphere during the inaugural game, describing how “There were 12,000 people. It felt like there were 222,000 people!” That roar not only celebrated a new chapter for UM Football, but a testament to Brian’s relentless dedication to elevating the program and creating a legacy for future generations of athletes.
Brian’s greatest accomplishment is the profound impact of the program beyond the field, saying, “We’re part of something that counts — that matters. This is the best classroom in the world. I genuinely mean it. In terms of people growing and learning about themselves and dealing with adversity, dealing with all the intrinsics that come with that of a football program. Everybody is there to back everybody up,” reiterating the character, resilience and strong relationships built in the Bisons Football program that will be a lasting legacy.
As we celebrate Brian’s accomplishments at the 66th UM Distinguished Alumni Awards presented by TD Insurance on September 18, 2025, UM is proud to recognize his legacy as one of dedication, community, and inspiration.
Learn more about this year’s inspiring 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.