Phil Roberts Obituary: Former Wildcats and Queen’s Football Coach Dies at 70 After ALS Battle
OTTAWA, ONTARIO — The Canadian football community is mourning Phil Roberts, a respected football coach, former university player, and longtime educator who died on October 12, 2026, at the age of 70, following a recent diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death has prompted tributes from former players, coaching colleagues, and institutions where he dedicated decades to developing athletes and supporting young people.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Football
Roberts built a coaching career spanning approximately five decades, earning recognition for his knowledge of the game, commitment to his players, and willingness to give his time to developing football programs.
A graduate of McGill University, he played linebacker for the university’s football team from 1975 to 1978 and also played varsity hockey. His passion for football continued long after his playing days, taking him to coaching positions at several universities, colleges, and junior and high school programs across Canada.
He served as head coach at Vanier College from 1987 to 1991, leading the team to three provincial championship titles. His coaching journey also included work with the University of Ottawa, Concordia University, Carleton University, and the Ottawa Renegades and Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League.
Wildcats and Queen’s Football Remember His Impact
More recently, Roberts spent five seasons as defensive coordinator for the Cornwall Wildcats’ under-18 football team in the Ontario Summer Football League. He also served Queen’s University as special teams coordinator and linebackers coach from 2013 to 2016.
His dedication earned him the 2016 Gino Fracas Award as U SPORTS’ national volunteer football coach of the year. While living in Ottawa, he regularly travelled to Kingston to help coach the Queen’s Gaels, demonstrating a commitment that colleagues remembered as exceptional.
Remembering an Educator and Mentor
Beyond football, Roberts spent 31 years working in education as a teacher and guidance counsellor in Montreal and Ottawa. His career brought him into contact with generations of students who benefited from his guidance and mentorship.
He is survived by his three daughters, Meagan, Amy, and Michelle; his adopted son, Abraham; and his granddaughter, Anna. Funeral and memorial arrangements had not been announced in the university’s initial obituary notice.
Phil Roberts leaves behind a legacy built on service, mentorship, and an enduring love of football. His influence will continue through the athletes, students, and fellow coaches whose lives he helped shape.
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