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TAMPA, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 18: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on prior to the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Raymond James Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 18: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on prior to the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Raymond James Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
“I’m heartbroken.” That’s how Tom Brady opened his heartfelt tribute to Greg Harden—the man behind the mental toughness that helped shape his GOAT-level career. Brady took to X to share his heavy heart about the passing of the legendary U of M athletic admin Greg Harden.
“I’m so sad to hear the news of Greg’s passing. I’m heartbroken as he was a dear friend and mentor.” Brady’s post showed just how big a role Harden played in his life. His words were full of raw emotion and gratitude.
I’m so sad to hear the news of Greg’s passing. I’m heartbroken as he was a dear friend and mentor. There are so many beautiful qualities Greg had that endeared him to so many people over his years at Michigan.
He meant the world to me and I could never have had the success I…
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) September 13, 2024
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Greg Harden wasn’t just any athletic administrator; he was Michigan’s secret weapon. For 30 years, he helped athletes like Brady, Howard, and Phelps break through mental barriers and reach new heights.
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Heartbroken Tom Brady credits his success to Greg Harden after Michigan legend's tragic demise. React!
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Ex-Michigan and now Vikings QB, J.J. McCarthy also shared a gut-wrenching tribute. He called Harden “OG” and poured his heart out, asserting, “You gave me the courage and belief as we fought hand-in-hand against the demons I’ve spent my entire life fighting.” McCarthy’s words showed just how deep the athletic administrator’s influence went—way beyond sports, into life itself. He added, “You showed me what true freedom feels like.” ESPN College GameDay analyst Desmond Howard paid his respects, too. “Although my family and I are heartbroken, we hold on to the lessons, guidance, and memories that will forever be Greg’s legacy.”
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With the sports administrator’s passing, Michigan and the sports world lost a giant.
Michigan’s “Secret Weapon” Greg Harden leaves a lasting legacy
Michigan’s Greg Harden died following surgery complications, leaving a 24-year-long legacy. Harden had that rare gift of cracking open athletes’ latent talents. He continued doing what he did best—helping players soar to great heights—before retiring in 2019. His work earned him a feature on 60 Minutes Sports, where he was rightfully called Michigan’s “secret weapon.”
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Tom Brady's success story—Would he be the GOAT without Greg Harden's guidance?
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Harden’s survived by his loving wife, sister, and three kids. Michigan Athletics shared that the family’s grateful for the love but needs privacy while they grieve. They said in a statement:“In the future, they look forward to celebrating Greg’s life with many who were blessed to know him.”
Greg Harden’s legacy will forever inspire Michigan’s athletes and coaches.
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Tom Brady's success story—Would he be the GOAT without Greg Harden's guidance?