WVU Pioneer Athlete and Coach Ford Dies at 87

Garrett Ford Sr., a significant figure in West Virginia University’s (WVU) sports history, has passed away at the age of 87. He died on a Sunday night in Charlotte, North Carolina. His son, Garrett Jr., confirmed the news of his father’s death.

Legacy of WVU Pioneer Athlete Garrett Ford

Garrett Ford Sr. was WVU’s first 1,000-yard rusher, achieving this milestone during the 1966 football season. He broke barriers not only as an athlete but also as part of the first wave of Black football players at the university in the mid-1960s. This period marked a pivotal moment in college sports as integration became prominent.

Early Life and High School Career

Before joining WVU, Ford excelled at DeMatha High School in Maryland. Under the guidance of renowned coach Morgan Wootten, he became one of the top running back prospects in the Washington, D.C. area. Ford highlighted his experience of growing up in a predominantly Black community, attending DeMatha, which had few Black students at the time.

Choosing WVU and Early Experiences

Ford arrived at West Virginia University in 1964, a time when fewer than 20 Black students were enrolled. Despite his apprehensions regarding racial dynamics on campus, he recalled a strong sense of community among all students, regardless of race. This influenced his decision to embrace WVU.

Athletic Achievements

• Rushing Record: In 1966, Ford became the first Mountaineer to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season.
• Notable Game: During a memorable game against Pitt, Ford amassed 341 all-purpose yards, a record that stood for 41 years.
• Honors: He was named a second team All-American following his outstanding performance.

After a promising start, Ford’s career was hindered by an ankle injury, limiting his performance in his senior year with only 204 rushing yards. He briefly played for the Denver Broncos before transitioning to coaching.

Coaching and Administration at WVU

Ford took on the role of WVU’s first Black assistant coach under Bobby Bowden. His long tenure spanned 44 years, focusing on mentoring players and enhancing their academic experiences. Ford significantly impacted the lives of many athletes, including notable players such as Darryl Talley and Pat White.

Contributions to Athletic Administration

In addition to coaching, Ford contributed to academic support initiatives at WVU. He was instrumental in developing programs designed to help former players return to finish their degrees. This continued commitment to student-athletes exemplified his dedication to their overall success.

Family and Tributes

Garrett Ford’s legacy continues through his family. His son, Garrett Jr., and daughter Tracie both participated in sports at WVU, showcasing a family tradition that endures. Ford’s commitment to West Virginia was evident even in his final moments. He wore a WVU shirt when he passed away, signifying his lifelong love for the institution.

The Ford family plans to hold a memorial service in Morgantown later this spring. Ford’s contributions to both athletics and academia will always be remembered at West Virginia University.

Recognition

In recognition of his achievements, Ford was inducted into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame in 1995 and the School of Physical Education Hall of Fame in 2004. His impact on the university and its community remains significant.