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Larry Pearson began his long and distinguished association with Gryphon Athletics nearly 50 years ago when he first set foot on the University of Guelph campus in 1970 as a student and athlete. Larry completed his varsity career in 1972 and three years later, he would take the reins of the men's volleyball team, eventually leading the Gryphons to their first and only OUA championship in 1978. While he has been an influential member of the volleyball program for decades, Larry's scope expanded when he took a leadership role in the university's Building Potential Campaign and the plan to build the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre. He was a key member of the advisory council for the campaign and a personal gift he donated in 2007 kickstarted the project. Larry, who also served on the University of Guelph's Board of Governors from 1995-2001, spearheaded the support of varsity athletes and has contributed to athletic scholarships for over a dozen Gryphons through his Larry Pearson Scholarship Fund. Larry's perseverance through multiple administrations, both at the Departmental and University level was instrumental in ensuring the completion of the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre.
"Larry Pearson is one of the best leaders and developers of people I have ever seen," said Gryphons' men's volleyball coach Cal Wigston. "His attention to detail, his love for the university and his love for competition is off the charts. Larry cares a lot about the program and wants to one day see a championship banner hang from the rafters, however, he cares even more about the athletes. Larry gets great satisfaction from helping the athletes develop into the best version of themselves not just as athletes but as well-rounded human beings.
"Larry does not only give his money to the university, he gives his time. When he could be at his home in Florida during the winter months he instead, chooses to be in the gym fixing equipment, chasing volleyballs, coaching the guys and coaching the coaches. It's incredible to see what has been done with the money he has donated, it's even better to hear the stories from the guys about what he means to them as a coach and as a mentor."
