One of the most beautiful sports photos I’ve seen and the story of a CU pioneer!

[AstroJake09]

Hi all,

My recent pickup is a photo that I’ve seen before and previously passed on buying. It recently popped up again and I finally acquired it. It might possibly be one of the best football photos I’ve seen. The photo shown below features University of Colorado Football pioneer Gary Washington, known to be the first deaf player in program history…



Washington enrolled at CU in 1974 on a football scholarship after a successful high school career at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind in which he rushed for 6,202 yards in just three seasons and became a state champion after recording a 100-yard dash time of 9.7 seconds.

From 1974-1977, Washington primarily played special teams and sat on the bench. He would work with his interpreter, Fritz Beyeler, to relay plays and instruction from Coach Bill Mallory on the sideline through American Sign Language. It wasn’t until his 1977 senior year that Washington would carry the ball in a game and it was his second and final carry which would go down in the annals of Colorado athletics.

With thirteen seconds left in the final game of the season against Kansas State and up 17-0, Washington was inserted at running back. He proceeded to take the handoff and go 72 yards to the end zone. After the game Washington was lifted onto the shoulders of his teammates and carried off of Folsom Field and into history.

Gary Washington passed away after a battle with cancer at the young age of 59 in 2013 without much press. Sadly, Washington’s legacy and impact as a deaf athlete in a primarily hearing world and as a beloved teammate within the Colorado Football program is all but forgotten by the athletic department and the University and he is a largely unknown figure to the Buffs of today. However, he and his story are remarkable and should be celebrated and remembered.

[bammerbb]

I'm a former student and loyal fan of Iowa State, a former Big 8 rival. I agree with you, his story should be remembered. Thanks for posting. - Brian

[AstroJake09]

Originally Posted by bammerbb

I'm a former student and loyal fan of Iowa State, a former Big 8 rival. I agree with you, his story should be remembered. Thanks for posting. - Brian

Thank you Brian! I’m a recent CU grad and obtained my bachelors degree in history following this spring semester. I’m always trying to uncover and learn of the stories of individuals and events that history has seemingly forgotten to gain new perspectives.

Here’s another photo I acquired with the first one showing Washington and his interpreter.