Alex Smith Inducted into Riders’ Plaza of Honour for Coaching Legacy

Alex Smith, a prominent figure in Saskatchewan Roughriders history, is set to be inducted into the Plaza of Honour this weekend, recognizing his impactful coaching career spanning 16 seasons with the team. Smith’s journey began in 1997 when he was hired by head coach Jim Daley. Over the years, he navigated through seven head coaches, maintaining his position in a profession known for volatility.

Reflecting on his experience, Smith remarked, “Just lucky, I guess,” as he reminisced about the friendships he built with coaches like Cal Murphy and his tenure under head coaches Danny Barrett, Kent Austin, Ken Miller, Greg Marshall, and again with Miller after Marshall’s dismissal. His coaching career faced a sudden shift when he was released by head coach Corey Chamblin following the 2012 Canadian Football League (CFL) season.

Smith elaborated on the challenges during Chamblin’s regime, stating, “I don’t really know what happened… Corey took over running the defence.” He recalled a meeting where Chamblin told him, “You didn’t have any new ideas,” to which Smith responded, “We never met!” Ultimately, Smith’s departure marked the end of his chance for a fifth Grey Cup appearance, although he was part of the victorious 2007 team.

The induction ceremony will take place during halftime of Saturday’s game against the Montreal Alouettes at Mosaic Stadium. Smith will be honored alongside former offensive lineman Chris Best and the late running back Steve Molnar. “I’m not sure I deserve it,” Smith said, acknowledging his long tenure as a linebackers coach, where he also coordinated special teams and contributed to the annual college draft before the advent of modern analytics.

Growing up in Regina, just a few blocks from the Roughriders’ former home at Taylor Field, Smith developed a passion for football early on. He attended Scott Collegiate and played for the junior Rams until a kidney injury curtailed his playing days. He later earned degrees in education and arts from the University of Regina, teaching in a one-room schoolhouse while coaching at Scott Collegiate.

In 1976, Smith became head coach at Thom Collegiate, where he led the team to multiple championships. He later transitioned to Johnson Collegiate as an assistant coach. His career took a turn when Frank McCrystal, a long-time Rams coach, invited him to join the Rams program, ultimately leading to his entry into the CFL with Daley’s offer.

After his time with the Roughriders, Smith continued to coach at the junior level, most recently with the Regina Thunder and the Campbell Tartans of the Regina Intercollegiate Football League, wrapping up in 2023. Despite stepping back from formal coaching, he remains actively involved, frequently attending Roughriders practices to observe and share insights.

When asked about the current Roughriders, who hold a CFL-best record of 10-2 under head coach Corey Mace, Smith commented, “They play with a great deal of enthusiasm. I think they really like each other and hence they probably really like their coaches. They look like they’re having fun. And that’s important.”

As Smith prepares for the induction ceremony, he reflects on a coaching journey that not only shaped his life but also left a significant mark on the Saskatchewan Roughriders. His legacy is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his hometown team.