BC Football Hall of Fame Inductee Bill MacGregor enjoyed a successful career with the Vancouver Meralomas, SFU Clan and a 1973 BC Lions Draft Pick.
He then stepped into his favourite role as Coach Mac, building football programs like the Abbotsford Panthers who not only lifted up a trophy, but also their community. Bill earned his Masters and Doctorate in Education where as a high school principal the impact he had on youth has lasted a life time.
Along the way were unexplained changes until Bill’s diagnosis with CTE and Dementia. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy known as CTE is coming to light as a neurodegenerative disease caused by repetitive brain injury. More research is required for early diagnosis and treatment to slow down the disease.
This is a story celebrating strength through adversity and all that Coach Mac has gifted to people, but also a reflection about what has been taken away from his family – who share heartbreak and loss in not knowing what was taking place.
Bill now spends his days with wife Pam who says, ‘No matter where we go former students, players, parents and colleagues stop to say hello and share a story about how Bill has touched their lives.’
Director’s Message
We truly never know where life will take us. I had the privilege of meeting Bill MacGregor as a young mom when our boys were attending the new Rick Hansen Secondary School in 1993. I held great admiration for their principal and considered it a blessing to have them study under his leadership.
Fast forward to 2021, when I ordered some cookies for a family event and became re-acquainted with Bill’s wife Pamwith whom I had attended school. During our conversations she shared how their family as a whole is struggling with his diagnosis of dementia. She was pondering writing a memoir with the title ‘Losing Coach Mac’ and asked if I might mentor her. I replied “yes of course, but perhaps you would consider a documentary film as well.” Pam reached back when she felt ready and we began filming in August 2023.
June 2024 we saw the first Abbotsford School District graduating student receive the ‘Coach Mac Scholarship.’ Born from this project – to carry on Bill’s vision and legacy as an educator, coach and mentor.
\It’s been an honour for the MacGregor family to graciously entrust their story in our care. Our hope is that viewers will embrace the wisdom and messages of selflessness Coach Mac shares. As well may this film open a door to awareness, research and early diagnosis with treatment, for better quality of life.
Sincerely,
