Golf Community Mourns the Loss of Mario Brisebois
The golf community is in mourning following the passing of Mario Brisebois, a distinguished sports journalist known for his significant contributions to the world of sports in Quebec. His death, which came after a courageous battle with illness, has left an enduring legacy that spans over five decades.
Mario Brisebois: A Prominent Figure in Sports Journalism
Brisebois dedicated his career to elevating the profile of Quebec’s athletes, impacting various sports including golf, skiing, and tennis. He spent 36 years as a journalist for the Journal de Montréal, alongside radio work at 98.5 FM and television commentary on RDS. His expertise was sought after by organizations such as Ski Québec, Tennis Canada, and Golf Québec.
A Lifelong Passion for Golf
Born in Shawinigan, Brisebois developed a love for golf early in life. In 1973, he served as a caddie for Jocelyne Bourassa during her historic LPGA victory at the La Canadienne tournament in Montreal. This pivotal moment greatly influenced his career trajectory.
Acknowledgments and Awards
- 2018: Inducted into the Quebec Golf Hall of Fame.
- 2003: Received the Distinguished Service Award from Golf Canada.
- 2005: Helped establish the Pierre-Nadon Award to honor those advancing Quebec golf.
Brisebois was recognized for his continued contributions to skiing, earning accolades from the International Ski Federation (FIS), and was named Journalist of the Year by Tennis Québec. His dedication to sports journalism garnered him a place in the Tennis Hall of Fame in Quebec as a builder.
A Lasting Impact on Athletes
Beyond his journalistic accolades, Mario was known for his compassionate approach to sports coverage. He championed the upcoming talents in Quebec, providing meaningful narratives that resonated with athletes and fans alike. His integrity and approach to storytelling earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and sports figures.
A Community in Grief
Brisebois is survived by his partner, Nicole, and his daughters, Andréanne and Catherine, as well as five grandchildren. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare teams at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal and the Sherbrooke University Hospital for their compassionate care during his illness.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Numerous colleagues have shared their reflections on Brisebois’s impact. His insights were reportedly instrumental in the careers of many athletes and sports administrators.
- Eugène Lapierre, a key figure in Quebec tennis, praised Brisebois for pioneering daily tennis coverage.
- Jean-Luc Brassard, Olympic champion in freestyle skiing, remembered him as a guiding light through challenging moments.
- Diane Dunlop-Hébert, a former president of Golf Canada, emphasized his tireless work in promoting young talent in the sport.
Brisebois’s legacy continues to resonate within the sports community. An event commemorating his life will be held in the coming weeks, with details to follow from his family. The golf community deeply feels his loss and celebrates the profound impact he has had on the world of sports in Quebec.
