By: Calvin Jensen, USU Eastern Sports Information Contributor:
Price, UT – Friday night was an evening of memories, laughter, love, and respect as longtime USU Eastern coach, Dave Paur, was inducted to the USU Eastern Athletics Hall Of Fame. With fellow coaches, past and present players, family, and friends in attendance, Paur was recognized for his 41 years of coaching and instrumental building of the USU Eastern athletics department as we know it today.
World renowned coach and motivational speaker, Larry Gelwix, started off the night as he shared personal experiences that helped shape his life and the life of thousands of athletes he has mentored throughout the world. Gelwix served as the volunteer head coach of the Highland Rugby team for 36 years with an incredible record of 418 wins and only 10 losses, including 20 national championships.
His true life story was captured by Hollywood in the major motion picture “Forever Strong”. Having spoken in over 100 countries, Gelwix entertained those in attendance Friday night with his wit, wisdom, and practical leadership skills.
Coach Paur then took the podium, reflecting upon his 41 years of coaching, 28 of which took place at USU Eastern. Gratitude and appreciation were given to his wife who encouraged him to move back to Price 28 years ago. His return would begin a legacy that would impact the lives of thousands of student athletes and fellow co-workers for a lifetime. Reflecting upon personal experiences that shaped his coaching and administrative roles, he shared some of the ups and downs, both of which he would tell you are required for success.
As a player he earned ICAC All-Conference Honors averaging 14.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, 43.6% shooting, and an impressive 78% free throw shooting.
A head coach at North Layton, East Carbon, Kings River College, ChowChilla, and USU Eastern, Paur coached 1,560 games in his career; 1,166 were on the basketball court. During his 41 years, he coached and mentored athletes in basketball, baseball, and track with an overall record of 760-798.
One of his well-known accomplishments during his career and continuing today is his ability to uplift and inspire all those he comes in contact with. Using his many years of experience both in life and on the court, he is able to use passionate story-telling to get his point across and help those around him come away with a different outlook on whatever situation they may be in.
Although officially retired, Paur can still be found on the basketball court sideline as a volunteer coach to the USU Eastern women’s basketball team; continuing to share his love of the game and shaping the lives of those around him for the better.