Charlie Smallface
Boxing Athlete — Inducted 1974
Charlie Smallface was one of Alberta’s most dominant amateur boxers of the 1950s, earning widespread respect for his skill, discipline, and remarkable winning record in the ring.
Between 1950 and 1959, Smallface captured eight Provincial Boxing Championships across multiple weight classes. Beginning at only twelve years of age, he won the Alberta Junior Class titles at 70 lb. in 1950, 80 lb. in 1951, 90 lb. in 1952, 100 lb. in 1953, and 110 lb. in 1954. Moving into Open Class competition, he continued his success by winning provincial championships at 119 lb. in 1955, 132 lb. in 1956, and 139 lb. in 1959.
He also won the prestigious Alberta Golden Gloves title four times between 1954 and 1958. Competing nationally, Smallface finished as runner-up at the Dominion Boxing Championship in the 132 lb. Open Class after advancing to the final match in Montreal.
Known for his speed and precision, Smallface compiled an extraordinary record, winning 49 of his 50 career fights.
After Induction
Charles Ross Smallface was born in 1938 and attended school on the Blood Indian Reserve near Cardston, Alberta. His early training as an Army Cadet helped develop the discipline, coordination, and competitive mindset that defined his boxing career.
Although best known for boxing, Smallface excelled in multiple sports including basketball, softball, and track and field. From 1951 to 1954, he won the Tom Longboat Trophy as the top all-around Indigenous athlete in Alberta and the Northwest Territories. In 1954, he received the national Tom Longboat Award as Canada’s outstanding Indigenous athlete.
Following his retirement from boxing in 1959, Smallface remained active in his community and continued to reside in the Cardston area. He earned respect not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for his service within the Blood Indian Band Agency and his contributions to community leadership.
Awards and Honours
- Eight-Time Alberta Provincial Boxing Champion (1950–1959)
- Four-Time Alberta Golden Gloves Champion (1954–1958)
- Dominion Boxing Championship Runner-Up — 132 lb. Open Class
- 1951–1954 — Tom Longboat Trophy (Top All-Around Indigenous Athlete — Alberta & Northwest Territories)
- 1954 — Tom Longboat Award — Outstanding Indigenous Athlete in Canada
- 1974 — Alberta Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Career Highlights
- Won Provincial Championships in five Junior weight classes and three Open divisions
- Compiled a career record of 49 wins in 50 fights
- Known for rapid hand speed and technical precision in the ring
- Competed successfully at provincial and national championship levels
