Wulf Stender-Builder

Inducted 2021

Wulf Stender’s decision to live in Newfoundland and Labrador was a major plus for athletics within this province. First as a competitor, and then as a volunteer organizer, coach, and official, his contributions have been very important factors in the success of the sport of Track and Field. His involvement with track and field covers more than five decades and he continues to share his wealth of experience and knowledge with other officials, athletes, and coaches. He is very well respected at home and across Canada for his expertise and for his constant positive attitude and high spirits. Having competed since 1951 in his native Germany, he first came onto the Newfoundland and Labrador track and field scene in the mid-1960’s, emerging as a top finisher in various prestigious events. At the 1964 Labour Day provincial track and field championships he captured the Victor Ludorum as a top performer in the senior division. From 1974, as a coach, he became a fixture at club meets, lending his officiating skills to most events. He joined Basil Delaney in the 1977 establishment of the Westerland Track and Field Club. His coaching contributions were on a year- round basis, indoor and out. He coached five Newfoundland and Labrador teams at the Canada Games, including 1977 in St. John’s, 1985 in Saint John, 1989 in Saskatoon, 1997 in Brandon, and 2001 in London. For more than 20 years on eight different occasions in cities coast to coast, he led local athletes to the National Royal Canadian Championships, and in 1997 he was Camp Director of the Legion National Camp. Since 1974 his officiating services and experience have been priceless to the sport of track and field. He has officiated at many Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games, high school regional and provincial competitions. From 1985 to 1992 he officiated at six national championships, and in 1987 he earned his Level IV Jumps Certificate. The highlight of his officiating career was in 1993, when he was invited to officiate as the Chief Official for the High Jump at the Indoor World Championships, which took place at the Sky Dome in Toronto. Former athlete Mike Gulliver, read an article online that The Evening Telegram published on Wulf Stender, and his love for Track. Here is what Mike had to say about his past experiences with Wulf: “His ability to bring out the best person in you is unparalleled to any other coach I’ve seen or met. He truly is a legend and built a legacy that will never be surpassed”.