The Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education was sad to learn of the unexpected death of Guido Geisler on October 26 at the age of 52. Geisler obtained his Ph.D. from the Faculty and went on to teach sport psychology at the University of Tsukuba in Japan, in addition to coaching within Tsukuba’s International Academy for Sport Studies.
Previous to that he led theoretical and applied courses in sport/performance psychology at the University of Edinburgh and at the University of Toronto (U of T), where he taught the theory and practice of coaching soccer. The practical applications of his research include the development of mental plans and the inclusion of mental skills in coaches’ training activities.
Outside the academic domain, Geisler served as both head coach (women) and assistant coach
(men) at U of T. He was a five-time OUA all-star with the Varsity Blues and a member of the 1988 CIS national championship team. During 1990-9, he spent time with Rapide Wedding Berlin of the previous German third division (Oberliga). He also prepared mental training materials for junior golfers in the US and Turkey, and for the coaching staff of Japan’s national men’s and women’s cricket teams.
“Guido was a great friend and colleague who gave so much to our men’s soccer program over the years,” said Anthony Capotosto, head coach of U of T’s men’s soccer team. “He enriched all of our lives in countless ways that made us all better people and gave us a clear reference as to what it means to be a good human being. While our Blues soccer family is saddened by his passing, we will carry the memories we shared with Guido for the rest of our lives."