Tribute to Harry McGowan–from Todd Carton

It’s with deep sadness (and gratitude to Bruce) that I write this memoriam to my friend Harry McGowan who died Friday of cryptogenic liver disease a few months shy of his 76th birthday.

 

Over the past few years, people have dubbed me “the non-rev” Todd Carton because of my passion for sports at Maryland that don’t draw much attention but the truth is that Harry was the original “non-rev” maven. His memory for past players and teams was prodigious.

 

Sure, he went to Terps basketball (men’s and women’s) and to football where he hosted a longstanding tailgate on Lot 1 but I think he came alive the most when he was at the “non-rev” sports. The thing is, that Harry went about this quietly without seeking to draw attention so while many people might see Harry and recognize him, you had to take the initiative to get to know him – which is precisely what I did. And my life is richer for it.

 

I became friends with Harry five or six years ago because every time I went to a gymnastics or wrestling meet or to a baseball, soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, field hockey or softball game I’d see Harry there. What I didn’t learn until later was how often Harry went not just to the games but how frequently he’d attend practices. Soon he had me doing the same.

 

Over the years, I came to anticipate going to games and practices with Harry, to share our memories of past teams, to the people he’d introduce to me and to his willingness to easily laugh at my (usually awful) jokes.

 

As we go into a new season of Maryland athletics, you might not be with us physically but you will be with all of us who knew you, Harry. And we will save a seat, or a spot along the fence for you because you’ve earned those spots for as long as we can hold them.

Todd Carton
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