The University of Michigan athletic department and community received sad news Friday morning: It was announced that longtime athletic administrator and life coach Greg Harden passed away following complications from a recent surgery.

Earlier this week, the athletic department announced that Harden had been hospitalized following a procedure that took place on Monday.

According to the athletic department’s statement, Harden leaves behind his wife Sheila, three children – Brian, Victor and Olivia – and his sister Lynette.

Harden has been involved with the Michigan community since graduating from the university in 1981. He began working with the university’s student-athletes as a consultant in 1986 and eventually became assistant athletic director before officially retiring in 2019.

Even after his retirement, Harden remained closely involved with the school and its athletes, working more behind the scenes to help the athletes reach their potential. His work with athletes was called the school’s “secret weapon.”

Harden has worked with countless athletes over the years, helping players like Tom Brady, Desmond Howard and JJ McCarthy during their football careers. He has also worked with Jalen Rose and Michael Phelps, among others.

His loss is a great loss for the Harden family and the university community.

Rest in peace, Greg Harden.