Ron Parfitt, a revered figure at Pickering High School in Ajax, is not only leaving behind a legacy of winning basketball programs but also a profound impact on the lives of the countless former Trojans he has mentored over his 32-year tenure as an educator and coach.
Throughout his distinguished career, marked by an array of championships and accolades adorning the gymnasium walls, including numerous Lake Ontario Secondary School Athletics (LOSSA) titles, Durham-York (DYSSAA) championships, and even an Ontario Federation of Secondary School Athletics (OFSAA) bronze medal achieved in the previous year, Parfitt's true legacy lies in the lasting impression he has left on his players.
Sephton Spence, a returning player who felt compelled to come back for a final year at PHS due to his admiration for Coach Parfitt, highlights the profound impact Parfitt had on his personal and athletic development. Spence attributes his growth not only as a player but as a person to Parfitt's mentorship, emphasizing how the coach's emphasis on teamwork and personal growth transformed him from a 'hotdog' player into a more mature and disciplined individual.
Parfitt's coaching style, characterized by a no-nonsense yet supportive demeanor, has resonated deeply with his players over the years. Former players like Ian Wight and Navin Singh attest to the pivotal role Parfitt played in shaping their character and instilling in them the values of hard work, discipline, and confidence that have guided them beyond their high school years.
As Parfitt bids farewell to Pickering High School, his impact on the basketball program and the lives of his players remains immeasurable. His ability to inspire, motivate, and nurture young athletes has not only led to on-court success but has also fostered personal growth and character development among those he has coached. While his retirement marks the end of an era for Pickering High basketball, the lessons and values instilled by Coach Parfitt will continue to resonate within the hearts of his players for years to come.