David Earl Celebrates Retirement and New Adventures Ahead

Former University of Saskatchewan quarterback David Earl is retiring from his role in the Saskatoon public schools system after a distinguished 32-year career as both an educator and sports coach. Earl, a celebrated figure in local athletics, transitions into retirement as a three-time grandfather, with all of his grandchildren born within the past nine months.

Reflecting on this new chapter, Earl humorously noted, “So we (he and wife Jodi) went from zero to three in a hurry.” His retirement marks the end of an era filled with significant contributions to high school sports.

Earl’s journey began on the football field, where he led the Huskies to a Vanier Cup victory in 1990, passing for 244 yards and earning the Ted Morris Memorial Trophy as the game’s most valuable player. Now, with the school year approaching, he finds himself stepping away from coaching high school football and preparing for life’s changes.

“Everybody said it wouldn’t really sink in until all of our friends go back to work and you don’t, and that’s really accurate,” Earl said. He described the transition as “odd” but ultimately rewarding, noting the absence of the usual “Sunday Scaries” that accompany the start of a new school year.

New Beginnings in Coaching

Although Earl is retiring from his role in the school system, he remains connected to sports. He is set to join the University of Saskatchewan men’s basketball team as an assistant coach. “That’s new and awesome,” he expressed, adding that he is excited about the opportunity and eager to learn in this new role.

His coaching career has been extensive, beginning at North Battleford Comprehensive High School under coach Don Hodgins. After spending seven years there, Earl returned to Saskatoon, where he dedicated 25 years to various positions, including teaching and administration at schools like Walter Murray, Bedford Road, and Aden Bowman.

In recognition of his contributions, Earl was honored in June 2023 by the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association with the Outstanding Male Coach and Service Awards. He emphasized that such recognition is a reflection of the teamwork and support he received throughout his career.

“And my wife, I give her a tremendous amount of credit for being okay with me working with not only our own kids that I had a chance to coach, and obviously a lot of other kids,” Earl noted. He believes that the relationships built during his coaching career are the true victories.

Legacy and Impact on Youth Sports

Earl’s commitment to high school athletics remains strong. He views sports as a vital avenue for building connections within the school community. “It’s an opportunity to get involved in the school community that allows you to get to know kids in a different way,” he stated. He believes that these experiences ultimately benefit his role as an educator and enrich the lives of the students he interacts with.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Earl looks forward to engaging with young athletes and continuing his legacy in sports. With a mix of excitement and nostalgia, he prepares for life beyond the classroom while maintaining his passion for coaching and mentoring the next generation of athletes.

For those interested in following Earl’s journey, the upcoming basketball season promises to be an exciting new venture. Earl’s story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that dedicated educators and coaches can have on their communities and the lives of students.