Veteran Sports Journalist Mario Brisebois Passes After Illness

MONTRÉAL (Azat TV) – Veteran sports journalist Mario Brisebois, a pivotal figure who shaped sports coverage in Québec and across Canada for over five decades, has passed away after a courageous battle with illness. His death marks the end of an era for many in the Canadian sports community, where his work significantly elevated the recognition and growth of sports such as golf, skiing, and tennis.

A Half-Century of Influence

Mario Brisebois dedicated 36 years of his distinguished career to the Journal de Montréal, becoming a household name in sports reporting. Beyond his extensive print work, he served as a respected commentator for RDS and contributed regularly to several radio stations, including 98.5 FM. His profound knowledge and insightful commentary were highly sought after by major sports organizations, including Ski Québec, Tennis Canada, Golf Québec, and Golf Canada, with whom he collaborated closely for many years.

Born in Shawinigan, Québec, Brisebois developed an early and enduring passion for golf. A defining moment in his life and career occurred in 1973 when he caddied for Jocelyne Bourassa during her historic victory at the La Canadienne LPGA tournament in Montreal. This experience, he often recounted, profoundly influenced his decision to pursue a career in sports journalism, providing him with a unique, insider perspective that would later define his reporting style.

Recognitions and Enduring Legacy

Brisebois’s immense contributions to Canadian sports did not go unnoticed, earning him numerous accolades throughout his career. He was inducted into the Québec Golf Hall of Fame in 2018, a testament to his dedication to the sport. In 2003, Golf Canada honored him with its Distinguished Service Award for his significant impact on the game nationwide. Demonstrating his commitment to fostering talent and recognizing excellence, he co-created the Pierre-Nadon Award in 2005, an annual distinction honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of golf in Québec. His influence also extended to tennis, where he was named Sports Journalist of the Year by Tennis Québec and was later inducted into the Tennis Québec Hall of Fame.

Beyond the scores and statistics, Mario Brisebois was renowned for his deep humanity and his ability to tell the stories behind the athletes. He closely followed emerging Québécois talents, often serving as a mentor and an ally, emphasizing the emotional aspects of sports and the dedication required for success. His storytelling focused not only on results but also on the hard work and personal sacrifices that propelled athletes forward.

Tributes Pour In

The announcement of Brisebois’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the sports community. Many notable figures expressed their condolences and profound respect, highlighting his kindness, unwavering support, and pioneering spirit. Eugène Lapierre, Director of the National Bank Open, recognized Brisebois as a pioneer of tennis coverage in Québec, whose early work laid the groundwork for the sport’s popularity. Olympic champion Jean-Luc Brassard praised Brisebois’s friendship and guidance, noting his constant presence and encouragement throughout Brassard’s career. Diane Dunlop-Hébert, former president of Golf Canada, emphasized his dedication to promoting talent and his gentle spirit, which made him a beloved figure among athletes and colleagues alike. Radio host Ron Fournier spoke of Brisebois’s deep humanity and supportive nature, especially during challenging times, while Richard Legendre, former Sports Minister of Québec, described him as a remarkable journalist and an even more remarkable man.

Remembering a Mentor

Mario Brisebois’s fight against illness was characterized by strength and determination, supported by his loving partner, Nicole, and his two daughters, Andréanne and Catherine. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Olivier, Sara Maude, William, Édouard, and Henri, who were a source of immense pride in his life. The family extended their gratitude to the medical teams at the Jewish General Hospital in Montréal and the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke for their dedicated care. A commemorative event to honor his legacy and profound impact on Québec sports will be announced by the family in the coming weeks.

Mario Brisebois’s career exemplified a rare blend of journalistic rigor and genuine empathy, demonstrating how a reporter’s focus on the human element and the journey of athletes can significantly enrich public engagement with sports beyond mere competition.