Victor Pruden

Victor Pruden’s illustrious career in basketball spans over 60 years, many of which directly impacted students, players, and coaches in the University of Winnipeg athletic program.

Vic’s coaching career began in 1953. He made history in 1966 when he transitioned to university level basketball and started the first intercollegiate men’s program at United College; later becoming The University of Winnipeg in 1967.

In 1967, Vic founded the Golden Boy Tournament, a groundbreaking university invitational tournament that would eventually become the Wesmen Classic. To date, the Wesmen Classic is the longest running UWinnipeg sporting tradition. In 1972, Vic started the varsity women’s basketball program at the University of Winnipeg.

More than just a basketball coach, Vic was a life coach for the students and athletes. He believed that education should include both academics and athletics, and it was this that guided his career. Described as an innovator and leader, in 1968, Vic was part of a group of coaches who founded the Manitoba Basketball Coaches Association, which he was named the first president.

He was instrumental in planning and coordinating the Basketball Hall of Fame and Museum, now at the Duckworth Centre at the University of Winnipeg. Vic was inducted into this same Hall of Fame as a Builder in 1994.

For building, growing and solidifying the game of basketball in Manitoba, The University of Winnipeg Alumni Association is proud to honour Victor Pruden with the Distinguished Alumni Award.