Racquetball Canada would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Thompson family on the passing of their loved one, Roald Thompson at age 92. Thompson is an honoured member of Racquetball Canada’s Hall of Fame.
Roald was one of the pioneers of our sport in Saskatchewan and made a significant impact on the growth and development of racquetball across Canada. His outstanding contribution was recognized by his induction into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in 1984, the Regina Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 and in 2019 he was inducted into the Racquetball Canada Hall of Fame.
As one of the first racquetball players in Saskatchewan, Roald made his mark as an outstanding athlete, winning many national titles over the years. As the sport developed, he set the standard related to training, fitness, and skill development and through his success and mentorship he impacted how others approached the game both mentally and technically.
Roald gave his time in an official coaching capacity, working with players to help hone their skills. Those who wished to become successful studied Thompson’s methods and style of play and took advantage of any opportunity to learn from him. In 1979 Roald was recognized as the premier coach in Saskatchewan and was named as Head Coach for Team Sask at the Canada Winter Games.
As a sport leader, Roald was an active member on boards and committees at both the provincial and national level. He also made a significant contribution to coach development through his work on the NCCP coaching manuals.
To get a full appreciation of Roald’s history and his sport legacy, we encourage you to read Roald’s obituary and his Hall of Fame biography at the following links.
Click here to link to Roald Thompson’s obituary.
Click here to read Roald Thompson’s Hall of Fame biography.
