Hall of Fame
A versatile athlete, Velyien Henderson represented the University in both Football from 1895 through 1899, and Track and Field from 1897 through 1899. He played on the Blues’ celebrated Canadian Rugby Union National championship team that saw two back to back intercollegiate championships, which included the first presentation of the Yates Cup in 1898. As captain of the Track and Field team, Velyien ran the 880 yards and one mile, receiving 3 First Colours, and he represented U of T at the first meet against Oxford and Cambridge in 1901. He was also active in Rowing, serving as Secretary of the U of T Rowing Club in 1898 and 1899.
Velyian’s enthusiasm was complimented by his leadership in which he succeeded in achieving construction of the first official cinder track at U of T and a 400 seat “grandstand” on the Varsity Stadium site, both in 1900-1901. He also organized the first official intercollegiate Track meet in 1899, helped to form the Athletic Directorate and served as its Secretary-Treasurer and Vice-President, which were instrumental roles in expanding the men’s athletic program at U of T.
