Larry Haylor and Darwin Semotiuk - Two Unforgettable Legacies

Larry Haylor and Darwin Semotiuk - two influential and highly respected individuals in Mustangs sport history.

As a young man, Greg Marshall, was coached by both Haylor and Semotiuk and his memories of these two leaders are impactful ones. Marshall even credits some of his own personality traits to the duo.

“Darwin controlled the locker room in a very calm way,” says Marshall. “He was an outstanding leader without having to say a lot. For many of us, we were far away from home and he became, essentially, a second father. He built a culture of caring and compassion which spread through our team. We all looked out for each other, like family.”

“Larry was offensive coordinator when I was a player,” continues Marshall. "He was extremely knowledgeable, outgoing, a great communicator and speaker. He absolutely cared about his players and pushed us to do better. Everything I know about football I learned from Larry, everything I know about how to treat people and coach young student athletes I learnt from both of them. I wouldn’t be who I am and where I am today without Larry and Darwin.”

Marshall notes the two men had similar qualities. “What came through for both of them is they pushed you to work hard and get out of your comfort zone but at the same time you absolutely knew they cared about you. I take that same approach in my coaching style.”

“Their legacy is the student-athletes and what they have gone on to do today,” reminisces Marshall. “They not only contributed to the game but mentored future husbands and fathers and community members. Darwin and Larry put so much time and energy into Western athletics, the football program and their personal families. They couldn’t have done it without outstanding and supportive wives.”

“They were more than football coaches or athletic directors, they were friends, mentors, and family men who cared for the people around them every single day. That’s their legacy - the positive impact they had on so many people.”