In Loving Memory of Ernie Henderson

Richmond Hill Soccer Club is deeply saddened to share the passing of our long-time member, Vice President, and dear friend, Ernie Henderson.

For 37 years, Ernie was a cornerstone of RHSC. Someone whose dedication, leadership, and passion helped shape the club into what it is today. His impact extended far beyond the pitch, touching the lives of players, coaches, volunteers, and families across generations.

Ernie’s journey with RHSC reflects a lifetime of service. He began as a house league coach in 1989 and quickly became a driving force within the club, taking on roles such as Assistant Convenor, House League Convenor, and House League Director. His commitment and leadership led him to serve as Vice President in 1999, before taking on the role of President from 2000 to 2012. Since 2013, Ernie continued to serve as Vice President, offering guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support to all areas of the club.

During his nearly four decades with the Club, Ernie played a pivotal role in transforming RHSC from a small community organization into one of the largest non-profit, community-driven soccer clubs in Ontario. Today, thousands of players and families benefit each year from the strong foundation he helped build.

In addition to his leadership roles, Ernie remained closely connected to the game itself, coaching a Richmond Hill’s Women’s YRSL team from 2002 to 2020, leading them to multiple York Region Soccer League Premier Division titles and cup victories. More importantly, he built a culture of loyalty, passion, and commitment, evident in the players who continued to return year after year to play for him. That loyalty spoke volumes about the kind of leader and person Ernie was.

Ernie’s influence extended beyond RHSC into the broader soccer community. He played an important role within the York Region Soccer Association, contributing in multiple capacities over the years, including serving as Director of League Operations. His contributions to the game were widely recognized, earning him the YRSA President’s Award in 2004 for his work in developing women’s soccer, induction into the YRSA Hall of Fame in 2019, and the Ontario Soccer Meritorious Award in 2022. He was also a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and the City of Richmond Hill Senior Volunteer Achievement Award in 2025.

Last year, RHSC proudly renamed its annual competitive tournament in his honour, the Ernie Henderson Challenge Cup, a lasting tribute to his legacy and the profound impact he has had on our club and community.

Ernie’s impact will be felt for generations to come. The foundation he helped build, the standards he set, and the community he fostered will continue to guide RHSC into the future.

Our thoughts are with his wife, Luba, and his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Thank you for everything, Ernie.