DJ Williams

Achievements:

• Commonwealth Games: Represented Bermuda in the 1934 Empire Games

• Olympic Coach: Coached Bermuda's track and field team in the 1948 and 1952 Olympics

• Sports Administration: President of the Bermuda Amateur Athletic Association (1955-1972)

• Bermuda Olympic Association: Served as an officer (1952-1981), including as secretary

• Bronze Olympic Order: Awarded in 1983 by former IOC president Juan Antonio Samaranch

Biography:

Donald James Williams, affectionately known as 'DJ,' stands as one of Bermuda's most legendary sports figures. His passion for sports was deeply rooted in his family, with his grandfather playing a pivotal role in organizing the first cricket tour to Bermuda by Australia in 1912. This event also marked the first black-white cricket contest in Bermuda and led to the establishment of the BAA Clubhouse.

As a young boy, DJ honed his cricket skills on a small patch of ground at the top of Crawl Hill. His love for sports expanded when he attended the Rossall School in Lancaster, England, where he excelled in rugby, boxing, and track & field. At Rossall, he set a record in the Public Schools Steeplechase and won the championship. In 1934, at just 19, DJ represented Bermuda in the 880-yard race at the Empire Games (now the Commonwealth Games), where he was awarded one of 12 smaller replicas of the original 340-ounce trophy presented by Lord Lonsdale.

DJ's athletic career was temporarily halted by World War II, during which he served in the military. After the war, he returned to Bermuda and worked for the Department of Education from 1946 to 1970, where he was instrumental in hiring PE teachers. Bermuda Olympic Association president John Hoskins credited DJ with ensuring that Bermuda's athletes received top-notch coaching, significantly influencing a generation of athletes.

As Bermuda's only qualified track and field coach at the time, DJ coached the island's track and field team at the 1948 and 1952 Olympics. His inclusive philosophy was epitomized by his son's words: "It didn't matter to him if you were black, white, or whatever."

DJ's contributions extended beyond coaching. He was the commandant of Bermuda's teams to the Commonwealth Games in 1954, 1966, 1970, and 1974, and he helped establish the Bermuda Amateur Athletic Association, serving as its president from 1955 to 1972. His impact on the sports community was profound, with Dr. David Saul, a former premier, describing him as a "second father" and a close friend for 46 years. DJ continued his grandfather's legacy at BAA by designing and building their gyms.

In recognition of his contributions to the Olympic movement, DJ was awarded the Bronze Olympic Order in 1983 by former IOC president Juan Antonio Samaranch. This honor placed him in an elite group, with reports suggesting that only a limited number of these medals were ever awarded.

The Olympian Magazine highlighted his dedication to sports: "His interest in sports has never flagged, especially in track and field, in which he has been a competitor, coach, and an administrator. One gets the impression that self-discipline and personal excellence were instilled through his teaching and coaching."

DJ's philosophy on participating in the Olympics was simple yet profound: "Shoot for the top, but remember you're a human being with a life outside of sport."

For 28 years, DJ was the driving force behind the development of the National Stadium, showcasing his unwavering love for Bermuda. As a sportsman, scholar, and civil servant, his impact on both the black and white communities in Bermuda was unparalleled. Dr. Saul aptly summarized DJ's legacy: "As a sportsman, scholar, and civil servant; it's very doubtful whether there would be another like him, because he had a profound effect on both black and white."

Legacy:

DJ Williams' legacy is characterized by his dedication to excellence, inclusivity, and the development of sports in Bermuda. His contributions as an athlete, coach, and administrator have left an indelible mark on the island's sporting history. His efforts to promote top-quality coaching, build facilities, and foster a spirit of unity and sportsmanship have set a standard for future generations. DJ Williams' influence continues to be felt, ensuring that his impact on Bermuda's sports community will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.