Michael Wilson, the University of Toronto’s 33rd chancellor, has died at the age of 81 after an accomplished career in the private and public sector, serving as Canada’s minister of finance and ambassador to the United States. As we join the University of Toronto community in mourning, we take a look back at a Pursuit article from 2014, in which the Chancellor Emeritus, the Honourable Michael Wilson, reflected on his years playing intramural football as a student at U of T.
To Chancellor Michael Wilson, intramural sports were more than just fun and games. They were an invaluable part of the university experience.
Wilson entered his first year at Trinity College in 1955. Having played football in high school, he was eager to continue playing the sport and was thrilled to become a member of the Trinity College Black Panthers, even if they didn’t have the greatest track record.
The team had won the Mulock Cup – the top honour for intramural football at that time – about 25 years previously. Since then, they were struggling to make a comeback.
“Some people treat intramural sports as more fun rather than competition,” Wilson said. “I was much more inclined toward competition and we had a number of other people on our team who felt the same way.”
Armed with a positive outlook, a new coach and some very talented players, the Black Panthers grew stronger and stronger – eventually coming back to claim the Mulock Cup in 1957. It was a win that put pride into the hearts of football players and fans alike.
“Our successes brought a lot of the people out to the games,” said Wilson. “When we were out on the field we had a lot of support. It was an exciting time and some of those people who I played with, they’re still very good friends.”
The teammates formed a special bond that remains unbroken. When Coach Bill McMurtry was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, the team held a reunion to honour their mentor and friend, with more than 20 people in attendance. McMurtry died just one year later.
For Wilson, the intramural experience was one that enriched his life in more ways than one. With an illustrious career in the financial industry, including the role of Minister of Finance in the Mulroney government and Chancellor Emeritus of the University of Toronto, Wilson remained active and credited much of his success to healthy living.
“Being physically fit helps you do your job mentally,” he said. “I would very much encourage students to participate in intramurals. It’s a great way of getting exercise, and you’ll play a sport with a group of people that you’ll enjoy being with.”