The Dalhousie Tigers - Dalhousie University

Gordon S. (Gord) Rankin was one of the most decorated and well-liked Dalhousie athletes in the 1950’s. An incredible athlete, Gordon provided superb leadership and motivation to his teammates on both the basketball (1953-57) and football teams (1954-56).

A Halifax native, Gordon entered Dalhousie’s commerce program in 1953 and immediately joined the varsity basketball team. Gordon’s family notes that basketball was his favourite and best sport, providing him with passion for the game. By his second year with the team Gordon was already a starter and quickly became the Tigers leading scorer, which he remained for the rest of his time with the team. Gordon also led the basketball squad in his role as team captain for two seasons (1955-57).

Gordon had a love of sport and his craving for more brought him to join the varsity football team in 1954. He had never played in a football game before, but quickly found his feet and became an irreplaceable leader on the team. During his first year with the football squad he secured the starting positions of offensive centre and defensive linebacker. His talent and skill on the field greatly assisted the team in capturing the coveted 1954 Purdy Cup Championship.

During the 1955 season Gordon was selected as team captain and held the title for his last two seasons with Dalhousie.

At the culmination of the 1955 season Gordon was honoured with the Halifax Limited Trophy, awarded to the league’s most outstanding lineman. This award was incredibly special for Gordon not only for its prestigious title, but also because it was chosen by the players. As a testament to his individual talent, he was selected for the award even though the Tigers finished without a single win that season. In the 1956 season Gordon was honoured with a selection to the league’s offensive and defensive all-star teams.

Over his career he earned three football letters, four basketball letters and a gold D for his commitment to the Tiger teams during his time at Dalhousie. In 1957 Gordon was named Dalhousie’s Climo Award winner as the university’s male athlete of the year.

Gordon’s 1954 Purdy Cup Championship team was one of two teams that were part of the University’s inaugural induction to the Dalhousie Sport Hall of Fame in 2004.

Gordon is remembered by friends and family not only for his athletic prowess, but also for his positive influence on others and for his encouragement and enthusiasm on the field and in the locker room. For his incredible leadership we honour Gordon Rankin by inducting him into Dalhousie’s Sport Hall of Fame.