Al Hoffman was the first Athletic Director of St. Clair College and an important member of the Ontario College Athletic Association (OCAA) and Canadian College Athletic Union (CCAA) beginning in the 1960s. Today, his legacy is permanently woven into the Saints’ athletic history.

Hoffman was born in Windsor, Ontario on May 27, 1936.

During Hoffman’s tenure as Athletic Director, St. Clair’s varsity sports program expanded from 6 to 14 teams. Many knew him primarily as the Saints’ Men’s Basketball coach. Between 1967 and ’80, Hoffman’s teams compiled a 175-54 record in OCAA play, winning three division titles and a co-championship in ’68. Hoffman was twice named OCAA Coach of the Year.

Hoffman was OCAA Secretary from 1967 to ’71 and CCAA Secretary from ’73 to ’75. He also served as President of both organizations: the OCAA from ’69 to ’71 and the CCAA from ’78 to ’82. He also assumed the role of Basketball Convener for the OCAA (1967-69) and CCAA (’73-78).

Significantly, Hoffman developed the first athletic scholarship plan in the Ontario collegiate system and played a significant part in launching the “Saints Booster Club,” St. Clair’s community membership plan. During his decades of service to the college, Hoffman consistently appealed to local businesses and alumni and was instrumental in conducting countless fundraisers.

Local and regional athletic bodies have consistently recognized Hoffman for his exceptional career. Notably, he received a Sport Recognition Award from the Ontario Premier’s office. In 2005, Hoffman was inducted into both the St. Clair College Sports Hall of Fame and the OCAA Hall of Fame. Earlier, he also received an award from the Windsor and District Basketball Referees’ Association for his outstanding service as a player and coach

Al Hoffman passed away on November 14, 2011.