Harry was a very humble man, who never forgot his roots and always referred to himself as Henry Gregg, Windsor Avenue, Coleraine.
His world-class ability was well noted and he quickly climbed the ranks to become the world’s most expensive goalkeeper. He joined Manchester United in 1957 in the reign of Sir Matt Busby, making 247 appearances for the side. His contribution to the United Story could never be underestimated, his name and deeds, both on and off the field, will always be remembered and revered. A survivor of the Munich Air Disaster in February 1958, his actions on that terrible day are a testament to his heroic bravery and spirit.
As a Northern Ireland international, Harry was voted best goalkeeper of the tournament at the 1958 World Cup.
Following his playing career, Harry moved into management with clubs in the UK and Kuwait. He later returned to Northern Ireland, where he ran the Windsor Hotel with his wife Carolyn.
Football was never far from Harry’s thoughts, and nothing delighted him more than seeing children falling in love with his beautiful game.
The Harry Gregg Foundation are looking forward to participating in Football Makes Our Shared History (FMOSH). We have a lot of diversity to celebrate through football in Coleraine. The Foundation continues to grow and FMOSH is a project we can positively use to reflect on the importance of how football brings us together.
Harry Gregg Foundation prepared for their FMOSH exhibition and Peace Pitch Twinning 10th December 22
Maurice Bradley, is a trustee for the Harry Gregg Foundation (HGF), he is proud of the fact that there can be over 2,000 children play football at Ulster University, Coleraine, every Saturday morning. The relationships formed at the popular venue come from as far as Ballymena, Derry-Londonderry and Donegal. It is a family friendly environment. The HGF provides a solid foundation for Football Makes Our Shared History in all communities.
Left: Ernie Brennan (Children’s Football Alliance) presents Maurice Bradley (Harry Gregg Foundation) a Football Makes Our Shared History Peace Poppy Ball which kick starts the HGF twinning with Flanders Peace Field, site of the 1914 First World War Christmas truces.
Maurice said, ‘It is a great honour for the HGF to take part in FMOSH.
