"Forever a Gryphon"
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It is with heavy hearts that Gryphon golf mourned the passing of a member of the Gryphon Family this year. The UofG alumnus died after being hit by a stolen car while walking home from a night out with friends last December. On Thursday, July 15 the man who killed her was sentenced to eight years in prison.
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A fierce competitor on the course. A warm and generous person off of it. Grace competed for five seasons with the varsity golf team (2010-2014) and this past Fall came back on a part-time basis to serve as an assistant coach and help out with the current student-athletes on the women's team.
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When describing Grace's impact on the Gryphons varsity golf program, there are several analogies that seem to fit perfectly. In basketball terms, she was the point guard of the team. An extension of the coaching staff both on the course and at the range; someone who worked hard on her own game, yet always found the time to offer help to teammates as well.
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Grace's impact on and off the golf course will never be forgotten by all of those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Since her passing there has been a tremendous outpouring of thoughts and memories from former teammates and coaches, which are included below.
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"Outside of the ropes, I'm not sure I ever saw her without a smile on her face. Coaches and players alike will always remember her infectious smile and her long blonde ponytail. She was the ultimate competitor, always working as hard as she could to help the team be their best. No one would ever outwork Grace... nobody! To use a family analogy, she was the mother of the team. The one who was caring and welcoming to both rookies and veterans alike. The person who constantly put others before herself."  Â
Brandon McLeod, Gryphon Golf Head Coach
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"I had a relatively short few years being around Grace. Little did I know that I would be amazed as to how well rounded she was at such an early age. Her maturity, smile and ease with people led to a natural affinity for a leadership role in all her undertakings. Whatever was required for the golf team, Grace was the first to volunteer – "I'll do that!" I learned this willingness to help translated to all of Grace's endeavours. I hope Grace's example of how to live life is remembered by all of us. I feel a void now without Grace but I have lots of memories that make me smile."
Bob Wanzel, Former Gryphon Golf Head Coach
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"As a captain Grace led by example with her dedication to academics, golf and school/community involvement. No matter how busy Grace was she always made time to plan get-togethers, extra practices and ensure that she had a variety of baked goods prepared for the team. Grace encouraged everyone to be the best that they could be on and off the course. Grace is greatly missed by the golf team but her work ethic, selflessness and passion for golf will always be remembered, motivating us as a team on and off the golf course."
Breanna Shannon, 3rd Year, Women's Gryphon Golf TeamÂ
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"Grace had many unique and special qualities, one of which was her ability to put others before herself. Both the men and women's team looked up to Grace and strived to emulate her demeanour and work ethic both on the course as well as in the classroom. The Gryphons golf team will forever be grateful to have crossed paths with such a strong, confident and influential individual."
Scott Banks, 4th Year, Men's Gryphon Golf Team
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"Grace didn't miss a beat, rain or shine she was there with a big smile and baked goods in hand. Her support throughout my years on the team meant so much to me. She would always be there on the first tee with each of us and regardless of the shot you could always look back for a nod and thumbs up on her behalf. She left a mark on me that will be impossible to forget and will continue to serve as a role model in my life for years to come. Grace accomplished more in her 24 years than most will accomplish in a lifetime. She will be deeply missed."
Robyn Bowser, 4th Year, Women's Gryphon Golf Team
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"She was the nicest person you could ever meet, with a smile that would immediately make you smile - regardless of what kind of day you were having. Grace was also very competitive. She would always treat competitors with respect and acknowledge a good shot, but she was the first to put on her 'game face' and put in every effort to win for her own satisfaction - but more importantly, she was always there to win as a team. I miss Grace, but am happy that we went out on a winning note. We most recently played in a tournament together in August 2015 and, as the only female team, won the tournament. She even had a natural eagle on one of the final holes! Grace was an amazing girl and an outstanding teammate. I feel honoured to have had her in my life as an important friend and confidant, and will continue to keep Grace in my thoughts and heart."
Vanessa Dupuis, Women's Golf Team Alumnus
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Grace's loving family has created a Grace Olivia Glofcheskie Memorial Fund to honour the memory of their daughter and sister. For more information on the Memorial Fund visit
http://uofg.convio.net/site/TR?fr_id=1981&pg=entry
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