Maury Van Vliet facts for kids

Maurice Lewis (Maury) Van Vliet was a very important person in Canadian sports and education. He was born in the USA on August 3, 1913, and passed away on April 4, 2001. Maury Van Vliet was known for teaching about physical education and fitness. He helped many people learn about staying active and healthy.

Early Life and Education

Maury Van Vliet grew up in Monrovia, California. He loved sports from a young age. He played both baseball and football when he went to the University of Oregon. He earned his first degree there in 1935. Later, he continued his studies, getting a Master of Science degree in 1940. He then earned a Doctor of Education degree in 1951 from the University of California, Los Angeles.

A Career in Physical Education

Maury Van Vliet was so good at baseball that the New York Yankees, a famous professional team, wanted him to play for them! But he chose a different path. He decided to work in education instead.

University of British Columbia

In 1935, Maury Van Vliet accepted a new job at the University of British Columbia in Canada. He became the director of physical education there. He also coached many university sports teams. These included basketball, football, track and field, boxing, and wrestling. He helped young athletes develop their skills.

University of Alberta

In 1945, Maury Van Vliet moved to Edmonton, Alberta. He became a professor at the University of Alberta. He worked in the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation. He held several important roles there:

• He was the Head from 1945 to 1954.
• He became the Director from 1954 to 1964.
• Finally, he was the Dean from 1964 until he retired in 1975.

He also played a big part in organizing the 1978 Commonwealth Games. These are major international sports events. He was the president and CEO of the organizing committee. This meant he was in charge of making sure everything ran smoothly for the games.

Honours and Awards

Maury Van Vliet received many awards for his hard work and dedication.

• In 1978, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. This is one of the highest honours a Canadian citizen can receive. It recognizes people who have made a big difference to Canada.
• In 1993, he was added to the University of British Columbia's Sports Hall of Fame. This means his contributions to sports at the university were officially recognized.
• In 1997, he was inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. This is a very special honour for athletes and people who have helped sports grow in Canada.
• He also received special honorary degrees from several universities. These degrees are given to people who have achieved great things, even if they didn't study at that specific university. He received them from:
  • The University of Western Ontario (1973)
  • The University of Windsor (1978)
  • The University of Alberta (1979)
  • Dalhousie University (1979)
  • Queen's University (1980)
  • The University of Victoria (1982)