CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The 12-member Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2022 includes Clarksville’s very own Harry Galbreath, who made a lasting impression in sport and throughout his community.
Galbreath attended Clarksville High School, where he played football and wrestled. According to Tennessee University, he was an accomplished high school football prospect. During his time playing high school football, he was given all-district, all-midstate and all-state honors.
His play ultimately captured the attention of the Tennessee Volunteers and head coach Johnny Majors. This led the lineman to commit to play for the school in 1984.
Collegiate and professional career
During Galbreath’s freshmen year, he played in only seven games, but he earned a starting job the following year. During his three years as a starter, Galbreath appeared in 34 games, was named to the All-SEC team three times and earned All-American honors two out of the three years.
In addition, he was given the Jacobs Trophy in 1987, an award given to the SEC’s top blocker. UT labeled him “the most dominating and aggressive run blocker Johnny Majors ever coached.”
Galbreath was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the 1988 NFL Draft during the eighth round. The offensive lineman played in the NFL from 1988-96 for the likes of the Dolphins, Packers and Jets. According to Pro-Football Reference, Galbreath started in 131 games out of the 141 games he played in. Galbreath retired from the NFL in 1996.
Galbreath passed away at the age of 45 in 2010, but his legacy lives on throughout Montgomery County. A Memory Rock was erected at Clarksville High in honor of him. Football players rub the rock for good luck before each game.