Tom Brady ‘heartbroken’ by mentor Greg Harden’s passing after surgery complications
Greg Harden, known as Michigan's best kept secret, passed away after surgical complications at the age of 75.
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Tom Brady, Greg Harden and Desmond Howard at the 2004 Rose Bowl. (Images via Detroit Free Press/IMAGO)
Greg Harden, the famous American life coach and mentor of sporting legends like Tom Brady, Michael Phelps, and Desmond Howard, passed away on 13th September. The 75-year-old sustained surgery complications after a procedure on Monday.
Greg Harden, aka “The Secret Weapon” started as a student-athlete counselor at the University of Michigan in 1986. He worked his way into the top ranks, becoming associate athletic director and eventually director of athletic counseling. Albeit stepping away in 2019, he served as an academic consultant.
Brady met Harden when he moved from California to Ann Arbor, Michigan to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies and to play. Brady is one of the biggest alumni and a hardcore fan of the Michigan Wolverines. Brady has commended Harden as the reason for stripping away his victim mentality. In 2020, Brady credited his mentor for helping him confront challenges directly when he began seeking easier paths.
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 had without the time, energy, love and support he had given me. He will be truly missed.Tom Brady wrote on X as a tribute to his mentor
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.
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) September 13, 2024
He meant the world to me and I could never have had the success I…
The quarterback once noted that Harden’s impact goes way beyond who one is as an athlete. Harden’s mindset focused on personal growth, which helped athletes reach their full potential. Losing someone who pushed you to become a seven-time champion quarterback is surely a tough loss to endure.
Michael Phelps mourns the loss of Greg Harden
Michael Phelps also mourned the loss of their mentor, Harden. Harden played a key role in championing the communication between the 23-time Olympic gold medalist and his coach Bob Bowman. Howard has been a mentee of Harden since the former arrived in Michigan.
My guy G. I’m so blessed for our time R.I.P.Michael Phelps wrote on his Instagram story
Greg Harden was a Michigan Man through and through, serving as a life and mind coach for many @UMichAthletics greats over the decades like @tombrady @michaelphelps and @desmondhoward
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) September 13, 2024
Greg suddenly passed Friday and @richeisen did his best to pay tribute. pic.twitter.com/8gKwzdU4oz
Michael Phelps, who had mental health troubles during his career, lived and trained in Ann Arbor. After emerging as a swimming star at the 2004 Athens Olympics, he worked on his mental health with Harden.
Harden has touched the lives of many athletes and players from Brady to Phelps to JJ McCarthy and Jalen Rose. The Secret Weapon, as he was called in collegiate circles, leaves behind an illustrious career and a legacy loved by many. He is survived by his wife Shelia Harden and three children.
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Mohammed Bazim
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