Erwin Swangard
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Erwin Swangard (11 May 1908 – 5 May 1993) was a German-born journalist.[1][2] Swangard Stadium is named after him.
Swangard was born in Munich, Germany in 1908.[2] He emigrated to Canada in 1930.[3][4]
As a journalist, he covered the 1936 Olympic Games for the Vancouver Sun and the Toronto Globe.[3][4] From 1951 to 1959, he undertook various editorial roles at the Vancouver Sun, concluding as managing editor.[3]
In sports development, Swangard founded the Tournament of Soccer Champions in British Columbia, which expanded from 70 to 2,500 teams.[3] He also contributed to the inception of the BC Lions and was instrumental in establishing Swangard Stadium in Burnaby's Central Park in 1969.[3]
Between 1976 and 1989, Swangard served at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), during which the event underwent significant changes.[3] For his community efforts, he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Award in 1987 and became a Member of the Order of Canada in 1989.[3]