Former Gaels fencing head coach Hugh Munby passed away October 1, 2018, in Kingston.
Hugh was involved with the Queen's fencing program since 1985 where he started as an assistant coach before stepping into the head coaching role in 2004 as the lead of the men's and women's programs.
Hugh's love for the sport of fencing was equally matched by his commitment to make the Queen's fencing program welcoming, inclusive, fun and successful for his student-athletes. As the programs architect he took every opportunity to increase the profile of the fencing program attracting ever-increasing interest and participation. Hugh's true gift was sharing his tremendous passion that was instrumental in building a community that included students, student-athletes, community members and alumni. A community that continues to support one another to this day.
Under his leadership, the team won six OUA titles from both the women's and men's teams and in 2007-08 he was named the OUA Fencing Coach of the Year. His teams also made an impact in their community as well whether it be through conducting school clinics, teaching youth at camps or contributing to their annual food drive for the Partners in Mission Food Bank.
"Coach Hugh Munby was a driving force for the Queen's Fencing Club and all the fencers who passed through our gym," said former athlete Julia Meerakker on her long-time coach. "He gave us the skills and encouragement to not only excel at fencing but also in academics and any future endeavour. He strived to ensure everyone who stepped in the Salle to fence left a happier, stronger, and better version of themselves. I and countless other fencing alumni would not be where we are today if it hadn't been for his dedication and commitment to ourselves as not only athletes, but also young adults first starting to make our way in life."
At the Varsity Clubs annual Colour Awards banquet this past March, the Queen's Fencing Invitational was renamed in his honour as the Hugh Munby Invitational Cup.
Coach Munby will be fondly remembered for his passion, commitment, wit, charm, and his deep love of the sport and its lasting impact on his student-athletes.
Flags at Queen's University will be lowered to half-mast on campus on Tuesday, October 9th, 2018 in honour of Coach Hugh Munby.
