Broncos Behind The Scenes: Greg Smith
One of the “originals”, Greg has been with the Stats Crew since its inception 25 years ago. “I remember back then. It was only Sam Sarson and I. We took care of calling the game and assists. That was all.” Now, the stats crew is made up of five people, covering all aspects of the game from assists, plus/minus, calling and information input. Greg is responsible for recruiting, scheduling, training and various game day duties. I had a chance to sit down with him and get to know him on a more personal level…
What made you decide to be involved in the stats room?
Well, I love hockey. Even though I couldn’t play the sport, I really wanted to be a part of it in some way. Working in the stats room for the Swift Current Broncos just seemed like an excellent opportunity!
Now, I heard you were quite the officiator…
Well, I officiated various sports for roughly 25 years covering everything from softball, football, baseball, volleyball, and track and field. I even was the Down Marker for a Saskatchewan Roughrider game way back in 1973.
Wow! That’s impressive!
Yeah it was a lot of fun!
So, aside from officiating and stats, you also had a lengthy career in teaching?
Yes. I started teaching at the age of 19 and then shortly after I completed my degree in education from the University of Saskatchewan. I taught in Yorkton, SK for ten years before coming to Swift Current where I taught at James O. Begg, Dickson (more commonly known now as St. Patrick’s Separate School), Fairview, Ashley Park and Central.
Outside of the i-Plex, what do you like to do in your spare time?
FISHING! I love it! I also enjoy reading, online poker and gardening.
What’s the most memorable fish you’ve caught?
I would have to say catching an 8 and a half pound Walleye while competing in a fishing tournament in Nipawin.
Who is your favourite (current or former) Bronco, and why?
Hmm…I have about three, but if I had to choose I would say Andy Schneider (Broncos Hall of Fame Inductee, played with the Broncos from 1989-92). He was a great all-around guy on and off the ice.
Unfortunately, Greg announced his retirement from the Stats Crew at the end of this season. As sad as the organization is to say good bye, Greg says he will still be coming to several Bronco games for the first half of the 2011-12 season (he will be living in his house in Arizona for the last half) and looks forward to a new and exciting season!
The Swift Current Broncos Hockey Club would like to thank Greg for all of his hard work and leadership in the stats room for the past 25 years!
