Passing of our former Head Coach Peter Shefford

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our former Head Coach, Peter Shefford fondly known as Pete/Sheff.

Pete signed on for our first international campaign in 36 years, leading Touch Canada at the 2024 FIT World Cup in Nottingham, UK—his fifth World Cup.

With over 40 years of involvement in the game, Pete brought a wealth of knowledge, insight, and steady leadership to our program. He was instrumental in getting our coaches FIT certified ahead of the tournament, was hugely supportive of our Women’s Open team—one of our two squads competing with a player-coach—and served as a brilliant sounding board for all of our coaching staff.

Pete lived by two mantras that guided his approach to life and sport: “Be the change you want to see in the world” and “Don’t give me excuses, give me results.” These words defined not just his coaching, but the way he carried himself.

His legacy will live on in every player, coach, and moment he helped shape.

Rest easy, Pete. You’ll be deeply missed.