The evolution of Gryphon Football has put the spotlight on a proud program. Supporters want to be a part of it – and keep that momentum moving forward. Friends of Gryphon Football was established about a decade ago to do just that. The organization, which is an extension of the original 25th Man Club created by former Gryphon Pat Tracey in the mid 1990's, exists so that alumni and friends can help promote and support the football team’s annual quest to compete for the OUA and U SPORTS hardware.
“Friends of Gryphon Football has become an excellent vehicle for alumni and friends to keep a real connection with the program,” says Director of Football Development and Special Forces Coordinator Bill Brown, who was a member of the 1996 Yates Cup champion Gryphons. “It is one of the ways to ensure that the program will remain intact.”
FOGF, working alongside the University of Guelph and the Department of Athletics, has a variety of objectives among its active and enthusiastic membership. The first is to raise funds to improve and promote the program. One of the most significant advancements to come from the club was the creation of the Gryphon Football Gala in early May, which raises approximately $30,000 to $40,000 annually for the program. Guests are eager to take part and see notable speakers like University of Guelph alum Thomas Dimitroff, the General Manager of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, who was a keynote speaker at the inaugural edition of the gala.
Friends of Gryphon Football allows this family of supporters to stay connected. Events like the annual golf tournament encourage interaction among the current players, alumni, parents, students, the University of Guelph administration and the local community, all of whom have are heavily invested in seeing every Gryphon achieve personal and team success.
