Greg Harden, performance coach who worked with Maple Leafs, University of Michigan, dies at 75

Longtime performance coach Greg Harden, famous for his work with the University of Michigan has died at the age of 75.

Harden’s tenure at the University, which began in 1986, saw him work with some of the most famous Wolverines, including former quarterback Tom Brady, who had one of the National Football League’s most successful careers.

He also worked with the Toronto Maple Leafs in recent years, who mourned his passing on social media Friday.

“The Toronto Maple Leafs are heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of Greg Harden, who worked with our team for the past three seasons,” the club wrote. “Greg was a man with perpetual positivity and unwavering support for our entire organization.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Greg’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.”

Harden spent his time with the Leafs as their peak performance coach, working closely with many players, including Mitch Marner, who in 2021, spoke about their relationship.

“Obviously, the role he’s in (is to be there) to talk to and to release what you’re feeling,” Marner said, via The Athletic. “Just the energy, the electricity he brings is phenomenal, and it’s something that I really enjoy because I thought I had a lot of energy and a lot of joy and then you see someone like him that just illuminates all of it.

“It’s something you want to really try to be like.”

Six months later, that sentiment was echoed by former Maple Leaf Jack Campbell, whose performance in early 2022 slid, leading to his work with Harden.

”He just really gets you to want to be the best version of yourself,” Campbell said at the time.

Similar eulogies poured in across social media Friday, with Brady writing he was “heartbroken” about Harden’s passing.

“I’m so sad to hear the news of Greg’s passing,” he said. “I’m heartbroken as he was a dear friend and mentor. There are so many beautiful qualities Greg had that endeared him to so many people over his years at Michigan.

“He meant the world to me and I could never have had the success I had without the time, energy, love and support he had given me. He will be truly missed.”