Former Hurricane Swimmer Matt Gribble Passes Away

March 26, 2004

Coral Gables, Fla www.hurricanesports.com – Former Miami swimmer Matt Gribble, 41, passed away Sunday, March 21 as the result of a fatal automobile accident near The Falls.

Considered one of the most decorated athletes to ever swim for the Hurricanes, Gribble, a native of Miami, was a two-time NCAA Champion (1982, 1983) and four-time All-American (1981, 1982, 1983, 1984) in the 100-meter butterfly while at UM and set four school records including the school mark in the 100-butterfly that still stands today. He was inducted into the University of Miami Hall of Fame in 1997.

A two-time Olympian, Gribble was a member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Team, which did not compete due to an American boycott in Moscow, and a member of the 1984 U.S. Olympic Team. He won the 1982 World Championship in the 100-meter butterfly and held the world record in the 100-buttefly until 1984. He was also a member of the 1982 World Championships gold medal 400-meter medley relay team.

“Matt was an outstanding, tough swimmer,” said his former UM Coach Bill Diaz. “He was quiet and all the swimmers loved and respected him. He was very dedicated and loved the University of Miami and his teammates.”

A viewing will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Stanfill Funeral Home, 10545 S. Dixie Hwy. The funeral is set for 10 a.m. Saturday.