June 9, 2010
A fan once asked me, “What’s your impression of those people that work over at UT?”
I smiled, instantly recognizing which way this rabid Dore was swinging.
“As a matter of fact. I like `em,” was my reply. They are good people who enjoy what I enjoy – college athletics.”
One of “those people” I had in mind was Haywood Harris, the Vols’ long-time sports information director who passed away June 2 at the age of 80. Returning from Haywood’s funeral service, that long-ago question came to mind as we worked our way home along scenic I-40.
We live in a polarized world. Network political discussions draw big ratings when the participants make their points by out-shouting each other. There is a conspiracy theory behind every headline. In sports, the other team probably cheats and their coach is a knucklehead.
And then there was Haywood Harris, who became a giant in collegiate athletics by being a giant of a person. He didn’t fit the stereotype of a big-timer. No French cuffs, no slick haircut or mod sunglasses. From my outsider’s view, he used his natural optimism, intelligence, common sense and exceptional people skills to not only guide Tennessee Volunteer fortunes for a half century but to help steer Southeastern Conference and collegiate athletics in the proper direction.
It was apparent the Haywood Harris Way touched many. A virtual “media guide” of tributes filled a booklet handed out at the service to the throng that stretched Second Methodist Church beyond its capacity. The reflections came from co-workers, past and present UT coaches, members of the media, former student assistants, friends, neighbors and SEC officials of different eras.
Some mentioned his skill in the workplace but most skipped to more important matters, such as honesty, integrity, loyalty and friendship. Others mentioned his consideration in treating a cub reporter with the same respect and thoroughness he did the hot-shot national columnist.
When I became Vanderbilt’s sports information director in 1994 after nearly 15 years in development and marketing offices, Haywood was one of the most helpful people in my adjustment. At the time, that seemed surprising because I very wrongly assumed he would be so full of the Big Orange that he wouldn’t have much time nor interest in a rookie – at the rival’s school.
Haywood showed many of us the right way to live life. He was a pillar in worthy organizations such as the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame as well as his church and his politics. He had a great sense of humor and enjoyed life. His long-time colleague Bud Ford mentioned one of Haywood’s favorite office expressions at day’s end was “It’s been a perfect day.” Former Vanderbilt Director of Athletics Roy Kramer recalled “no one was more exhilarated in victory or gracious in defeat”.
It was an interesting coincidence that Haywood and Hall of Fame basketball coach John Wooden passed away with two days of each other. The Wizard of Westwood was famous for his incredible coaching accomplishments but gained legendary status by being so much more than wins and losses. Much the same with Haywood; they have a lot to share with each other.
Many of us see Southeastern Conference sports through Black and Gold tinted glasses. These are games that we play and we need to remember that there are good people — indeed very good people– on both sides of any line of scrimmage. Haywood Harris was among the best.
