The Brian Budd Award is intended to recognize those who have excelled both in soccer and in another endeavour but who might not otherwise qualify for induction into The Soccer Hall of Fame. The candidate must exemplify good character, show outstanding dedication, achievements and leadership in developing soccer in Canada and provide inspiration to past, present and future generations.

BRIAN BUDD became the most internationally recognized Canadian soccer player through his participation in the various made-for-TV Super Star Competitions from 1977-1980.  He competed against stars from American football, basketball, baseball, track & field, hockey, rowing, swimming, tennis, weightlifting and boxing, and there was not one athlete who could match him.  He competed three times in The World Super Star competition, winning it all three times and becoming a Canadian celebrity.  The inspiring image that he created was that of an athlete with a soccer background who was almost unbeatable.  The “Brian Budd rule” was then instigated stating that an individual could win the competition only three times after which they could not compete again.
Brian did not begin his soccer career until his late teens, then playing with the UBC Thunderbirds and winning the University Gold Medal in 1974.  He also played seven seasons in the North American Soccer League (NASL), starting with the Vancouver Whitecaps and going on to play with the Colorado Caribou and The Toronto Metros-Croatia team.  While playing indoor soccer for The Huston Hurricanes, he also played at the international level, representing Canada seven times and scoring two goals in World Cup Qualifying matches.  Brian also played with the Cleveland Force of the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) leading his team in scoring as well as being named the team’s MVP.
Later Brian became a well known soccer broadcaster and was always promoting the sport.  He was the colour commentator for the Toronto Blizzard in 1982 and later a charismatic analyst on The Score’s Footy Show from 2004 – 2008.
“Budgie” had a wonderful sense of humour, always wore his heart on his sleeve and was exceedingly popular both with fans and fellow professionals.
Brian Budd (1952-2008)