|
|
Herbert Bryant
One of the greatest all-around athletes to ever hail from Virginia, Herbert Bryant excelled in five sports at the University of Virginia, earning him the distinction of being the state’s most versatile athlete. He earned varsity letters in football, basketball, baseball, track and boxing, often playing multiple sports in a single season. Few single-sport players matched his talents and abilities as Bryant shone in every sport in which he played. At six feet tall and over 200 pounds, Bryant’s speed—he could outrun any man in the 40 yard dash—agility, and overall talent made him the epitome of an all-around athlete.
In his early days, Bryant made his name as a multi-sport star at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia. He made a grand entrance into collegiate sports in 1928, becoming the first freshman to earn a varsity letter in four sports. Athletic Director and fellow Hall of Fame inductee James Driver said of Bryant, “I consider Herbert one of the best athletes ever at the University. He is versatile in baseball, football, boxing, and track, and has done his share in aiding the University on the athletic field.” The University of Virginia presented Bryant with a special trophy in honor of his feats.
Virginia track coach and fellow Hall of Famer Archie Hahn saw the tremendous talent in Herbert Bryant. Under Hahn’s direction, Bryant continually added feet to his discus throws and inches to his shot-putting every week, breaking all local records in the two events. Hahn chose Bryant as one of five Cavaliers to compete in the Olympic sectional trials in Baltimore. After having tossed the discus 145 feet in practice, it was speculated that Bryant, a freshman, had the best chance of any in the group to earn a spot on the Olympic team.
Bryant continued to dominate the college sports scene throughout his athletic career at Virginia. In his boxing debut, the heavyweight Bryant knocked out his Richmond opponent in 1 minute and 30 seconds of the first round. He often won in the first round by both knock out and technical knock out, and won the Southern Conference boxing title his first season as a boxer.
On the gridiron, Bryant proved that he could do it all. He spent two years at fullback and was called upon to carry the ball, pass or kick. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-Southern first team in 1932, as well as All-American Honorable Mentions in both 1931 and 1932.
Over the years, Bryant continued to shine both on the field or court. His legacy of athleticism continues today and his place in the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame is a testament to his skills and character.
(return to Spotlight)
|
