Triumphs & Challenges

Explore Grant Braceā€™s life journey, witness his transformation into a promising young wrestler.Ā 

Grant Brace

A promising young wrestler whose life was tragically cut short due to the relentless demands placed upon him by his coaches.

The Grant Brace Foundation

The family has initiated Ā ‘The B.R.A.C.E. Protocol’ alongside a call to improve Coaching education and Sports Culture by Empowering Heat Safety.

Triumphs & Challenges

Explore Grant Braceā€™s life journey, witness his transformation into a promising young wrestler.Ā 

Grant Brace

A promising young wrestler whose life was tragically cut short due to the relentless demands placed upon him by his coaches.

The Grant Brace Foundation

The family has initiated ‘The B.R.A.C.E. Protocol’ alongside a call to improve Coaching education and Sports Culture by Empowering Heat Safety.

A Legacy Never Forgotten

Story of Grant Brace

Grant Brace, a 20-year-old spirited young wrestler, tragically met his untimely demise as the result of being relentlessly pushed beyond his physical limits by his coaches, Jordan Countryman and Jake Sinkovics, at the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky. His story isnā€™t just about a promising athleteā€™s whose life was cut short in its prime; it also sheds light on the taboo surrounding mental health, the aggressive culture cultivated within wrestling, and the complexities of small-town and university politics. Grant’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing the well-being and safety of athletes, fostering a supportive environment, and advocating for justice in the face of adversity. His memory inspires efforts to address systemic issues and promote a healthier, more compassionate approach to sports and coaching.

Grant Brace’s story echoes with profound significance, sparking conversations and actions aimed at preventing similar tragedies and encouraging positive change within athletic communities.

The family is proud to announce that The Grant Brace Story has been sold to prestigious publisher, J. Boylston & Company publisher Imprint Brick Tower Press for domestic and international publishing release in 2025. The adaptation of the Grant Brace Story book into a feature film is currently being positioned out for bid to video streamers, studios, networks and distribution companies through the family agent, Alan Morell, CMP.

He faced and overcame challenges unlike any others

Grant's Journey

Grant Was Born

Grant: Nashville ’99. Kyle & Jackie Brace’s youngest, completing the family after big sis Kaylee

Grant Started Preschool

He was always so excited for school and quickly became the social butterfly and class clown

Started Wrestling Career

After the family’s move to NY, Grant began wrestling, securing 1st place & his first pin at his very first tournament

Joined MJ Bear Club

Upon moving back to TN, Grant joined MJ Bear Club Wrestling and kicked off his football journey

Diagnosed with sleep disorder: Narcolepsy

Despite facing challenges (Narcolepsy & ADHD), Grant persisted & remained successful in wrestling, & began advocating for his medical needs in sports

All-American Wrestler

He became an All-American Wrestler at a national tournament

Becomes AAU TN State Champion in 5th Grade

This meant Grant was the #1 wrestler across all of TN for his age & weight class

Won Best Match Award

His tournament match was voted the most valiant & exciting of the day

8th Grade Regional Champion

He was the #1 wrestler in the Middle TN region in his age/weight class

Won his first Powerlifting Meet

At just 14, Grant dominated his first powerlifting meet, showcasing incredible physical strength beyond his years

Won State Football Championship

Grant moves with his family to East TN, seamlessly integrating into new football and wrestling teams while maintaining his dominance in both sports

Won 2nd Place in State Wrestling Championship

Grant stunned competitors, clinching 2nd place statewide among his weight class in Tennessee wrestling

Record of 128 wins/33 losses

High School total wrestling record of 128 wins/33 losses

Graduates High School

Grant Graduates high school with academic honor awards

Signs an athletic scholarship to wrestle in college

Grant’s dedication paid off as he signed to pursue his passion for wrestling in college

We lost Grant Brace

Grant passed away due to an exertional heat stroke during the first wrestling practice of his junior college season

He is never forgotten

Grantā€™s high school Alma Mater honored his life on the jumbotron during a football game

His Last Medal

Grant gave the gift of life by donating his organs and received his last medal

His Legacy Continues

The Brace Family presents ā€œThe Grant Brace Legacy Awardā€ annually to a wrestler embodying Grantā€™s dedication and hard work

Stay tuned !

Recent Podcast

EP.1: The Road to Punishment Hill

This episode introduces the key figures, the dynamics within the team, and the events leading up to the tragic day. It sets the stage for the narrative, highlighting the importance of the story being told.

Our lives were turned upside down

Grant Was Loved

Kyle Brace

ā€œGrant was loved for so many things. He embodied strength, resilience, and a fierce spirit. Life was his battlefield, and he faced its challenges with courage, always coming out on top. But then life took an unexpected turn, cutting his journey short and leaving a hole as big as the dreams he had left to fulfill. Every day, I miss his laughter, his determination, and his love for living. Memories of him fill our home, both sweet and sad. Especially, I miss our times together in the garage, working on projects side by side. I miss his creativity and his never-give up attitude. I wish for just one more conversation. He is missed dearly.ā€

 

Jackie Brace

“The day Grant was born overflowed with love, hope, and dreams. As a mother, every milestone and accomplishment etched memories into my soul. With each heartbeat, my love for him deepened, intertwined with dreams for his future. Though his life was cut short, his absence echoes with the loss of his smile, humor, and kind soul. Each day, I cherish memories of our laughter-filled home and hold his spirit close. In quiet moments, I long for one more hug, one more laugh, one more chance to bask in his radiance. Grant was one of my greatest accomplishments and is loved and missed dearly. “

Kaylee Brace Wagnon

ā€œGrant and I shared an incredibly close bond since childhood, always partners in crime despite our 4.5 year age gap. As each otherā€™s only sibling, we had a unique relationship filled with sports, video games, and occasional mischief. While I played the “evil older sister,” Grant gladly embraced the role of the “annoying younger brother.” We loved fiercely and fought passionately, always supporting, and protecting each other. Grant’s warmth and humor brought light into the world, and his absence has left a void that I feel every day. I am committed to ensuring that his name, story, and legacy of kindness endure.ā€

 

 

Titan

ā€œThough the entire Brace Family adopted me as a puppy I had the privilege of getting to spend most of my life aging alongside Grantā€™s childhood. Grant was more than just an owner; he was my everything. We shared an unbreakable bond strengthened by countless shared moments of laughter, treats, zoomies, and companionship. Grant taught me the true meaning of loyalty, friendship, and love. Together we weathered lifeā€™s storms and celebrated its triumphs. Thank you for always cleaning out my eye goop, picking me up when I was too old to jump on the bed, and tucking me in at night. Until we meet again, I will forever wait for you to come home.”

-Titan passed away in 2022 at the age of 20, but never stopped waiting for Grant to return home.

“Grant’s legacy remains a beacon of hope. His story, soon to be unveiled in both book and film, is a testament to his enduring spirit. With each page turned and every frame flickered, his memory will live on, inspiring others to persevere through darkness into light.” – Brace Family

A Gallery of Eternal Love & Legacy

Cherished Forever

Capturing the essence of a remarkable Life. Explore moments that define his Legacy

Guiding force bringing Grant’s story to life

We Thank:

Alan Morell

Our Agent

Our agent Alan Morell has been so helpful to our family! Following the civil lawsuit settlement we had no idea where to go next. Alan has really become family through this process and is understanding of our goals and our grief. He truly has been a blessing by helping us navigate this whirlwind of a process.

Jamie Moncus

Our Attorney

He was the perfect person for us at the perfect time. We call him 'Yoda' for his unwavering dedication for justice. Jamie's ability to connect with us on a personal level goes beyond the courtroom. He's more than a lawyer; he's a friend who genuinely cares. His commitment to telling Grant's story is unparalleled, and we're grateful for his continued support.

Didi Gluck

Writer Collaborator

With her rich background in print media and storytelling, Didi brings a depth and authenticity to Grant's narrative that is truly remarkable. We are grateful for her compassion and dedication, knowing that with Didi's expertise, Grant's legacy will be honored with the care it deserves.

Latest updates about The Grant Brace Story Project

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