In support of athletes and sport in general for over 50 years in our community, Frank Buchanan has earned a rightful place in the Burlington Sports Hall of Fame. His hours of commitment and dedication to amateur sport, specifically hockey, baseball, and basketball are unparalleled in Burlington.
Frank moved to Burlington in the late ’50s and soon immersed himself in community life. Here is a brief list of some of his major accomplishments:
Burlington Lion Optimist Minor Hockey Convenor 1963 to 1966 inclusive
Secretary/Coach in the same league, 1974 to 1988 – during these years he took five different teams to Europe and Russia to not only play but also to encourage the players to learn about other countries and cultures
Frank was President of the Burlington Central Lions Club, 1973-74. As well, Frank was one of the originators of the Burlington Sports Celebrity Dinner which began in 1966 and ran successfully for 25 years. He chaired this prestigious event twice
Burlington Mohawks Junior B Hockey team manager 1967-68 and President and General manager 1968 to 1973
Burlington Cougars Junior B/A Hockey League General Manager 1988 to 2000
Ontario Provincial Junior A Hockey League Director at Large and Treasurer 1988 to 2000
Ontario Hockey Federation Appeals Committee 1995 to present
Burlington Golden Horseshoe Hockey Tournament Director 1982, 1983, and 1986 – he also served on the Board of Directors for 7 years has been involved in some capacity with this tournament for over 36 years
Burlington Senior Fastball Association – player 1960 to 1965
Burlington Amateur Softball Association – Coach from 1970 to 1987 and member of the Executive for 12 years
Burlington Junior Fastball Team – Coach and Manager 1965 to 1970
As well, Frank had a long career as a basketball official. He is a recipient of the prestigious A.J. Dunn Sports Person of the Year Award, given annually to the volunteer whose leadership and initiative over a large number of years has led to the advancement of sport within the Burlington Community. Frank received this honour in 1989. He has received other Civic recognition as well for he is a tireless supporter of sport in our community. Well done, Frank Buchanan and thank you from the hundreds of athletes that you guided and supported.
Frank passed away in March 2020.