Garry Brown’s story inspires me because it highlights the “rest of the story” about playing sports at Texas and honors all athletes, not just the starters. Garry never saw playing time or even made the traveling team until one magical moment that is forever part of Longhorn sports history.

His commitment to Texas embodies the heart and soul of Longhorn ports. For four years, he pushed the game players, showed up for every workout, every film session, and every meeting, yet received no recognition or honor.

While Coach Royal was tough on his players, he also had tremendous respect for those who competed hard in practice. Garry Brown was that kind of teammate. But unfortunately, he had never suited up for a varsity game.

His patience and perseverance were rewarded by Royal in the final conference game in 1964 against Texas A & M. With 2 1/2 minutes to play and the Texas victory secure, Royal told Garry Brown to go in on defense.

On A&M’s next three plays, Garry had one tackle and two assists. Then, with 30 seconds to play, Royal put Garry in the game on offense, and Garry caught a 19-yard pass, followed by a 10-yard TD catch as the clock ran out. Garry said, “I was in the form of shock. My teammates were more excited than me. They were in unbridled joy. It is and was a great memory.”

I could not find a photo of Garry Brown, and he is not listed on the 1964 team roster, yet he is part of Longhorn Sports history, and I love it!

I would love to receive more insight stories from fans or players across all sports for the archives. If you don’t feel comfortable writing about an important event in your life while at Texas, then write something about a player you admire.

Horns Up!