Gym 11 officially became the Bob Albrecht Memorial Gymnasium in a christening ceremony at Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School on Thursday.
Phys-ed teacher Barb Young said the gym was renamed not only for who Albrecht was but for what he stood for.
“Not everybody could be their best but try their best,” said Young, who was Albrecht’s student, colleague, coach and friend. “That was all about Bob . . . His spirit lives on. He would love to be here today if he could.”
Albrecht died on Feb. 10 at the Red Deer Hospice after a battle with cancer.
The man known as “Coach Bob” taught at Lindsay Thurber for 25 years.
He coached football, golf, badminton, track and field, and other sports. He was instrumental in starting Team Handball in Central Alberta.
“We are extremely honoured and grateful,” said Gerene Albrecht, Albrecht’s eldest child who spoke on behalf of the family.
“I can’t think of a better tribute than having a gym that he spent most of his time in. This would have been probably the most significant thing in his life to be honoured by the school in that fashion.
“He would have been very, very honoured and happy.”
At the end of April, the school is hosting the team handball provincial championships. With the ASAA’s permission, the school hopes to dedicate the championship in Albrecht’s honour.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com