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From glory to agony: Hal Garner's football career ended with pain and addiction
51 comments | Read story
man oh man | 1:02 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Terrible story. Good luck Mr Garner.
Katie | 1:08 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Yikes, what a downer! Mr. Garner, God bless.
Bob | 2:48 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
"Would I do it again? In a heartbeat."
There is so much to that statement. So much that is wrong about the emphasis we put on sports and how little it means to be a father, husband, or community member. I'd like to wish this man all the luck in the world, but unless he can start to see what's wrong with that last statement-with regard to what he's given up, I think he will be in about the same spot ten years from now.
Sad, great story. Good work on this topic, D. News.
There is so much to that statement. So much that is wrong about the emphasis we put on sports and how little it means to be a father, husband, or community member. I'd like to wish this man all the luck in the world, but unless he can start to see what's wrong with that last statement-with regard to what he's given up, I think he will be in about the same spot ten years from now.
Sad, great story. Good work on this topic, D. News.
Comments continue below
labeau | 6:18 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Went to school with Hal, one of the greatest footballers that ever played for
Logan and U.S.U.
He his really a sweet guy, always kind to everyone.
Kids our age, class of 1980, never talk ill of Hal, they love the guy.
I have no doubt he'll make it back.
He his really a sweet guy, always kind to everyone.
Kids our age, class of 1980, never talk ill of Hal, they love the guy.
I have no doubt he'll make it back.
Buck's Comment | 6:59 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Please give the man a chance, (another and another and another...). Since none
of us have ever been in Hal's shoes, we all hope that we are better
tomorrow than today. We all hope that we can be treated and judged with an
opportunity to better ourselves. Hal will always be my friend. We shared
hunting camps, evenings as friends, and time with our kids. My family will
always remember the special timea and considerations he gave them. Yes, not
every thing was perfect, but our friendship was genuine. God speed be with you
Hal...your friend Buck
MFM | 7:01 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
He should have left the area for college and gone to USC. What a heartbreaking
story. Someone needs to take him under their wing.
Wayne H. of Provo | 8:11 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Thank you for telling the whole story, I believe everyone should hear his story
so they can relate it to their own lives. You don't have to have been in
sports to have pain "KILLERS" ruin your life. The medical community
must shoulder this responsibility of addition, when will alternative avenues
mean more than the bottom line. Once again thank you for this article and Hal
may you find one of the many alternate ways.
My role | 8:37 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
This story makes me want to give up watching and supporting football. We've
created a class of modern-day gladiators and, as fans, must acknowledge that we
bear a portion of the responsibility.
Im rooting for this guy! | 8:45 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
I hope he gets his life in order. But reading about all the physical pain he
goes through day in and day out its going to be really hard. I really feel bad
for the guy and hope he can someday see his kids again.
footballfan | 10:08 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
I love watching football, my experience playing the game was by doing
"powderpuff" in high school - a joke really, but what else can a girl
do? Anyway, this story makes me so sad to think that Hal and so many other
untold players give up the happiness and well-being in their lives for a few
moments of glory on the football field. And yet he would do it all again in a
heartbeat. Doens't that speak volumes about the call of superstardom and
celebrity in this world. And who's to say that any one of us given
Hal's abilities and the same choices wouldn't have done the same.
Matt | 10:23 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
One paragraph in this story speaks volumes about our society-- "He lost the
respect of a community once proud of its hometown hero. People whispered,
'That's Hal Garner. He has a problem....' Some rallied around
him, most didn't.
And we have the nerve to call ourselves christians...
And we have the nerve to call ourselves christians...
ALP | 10:34 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
What's up with doctors giving addicts seemingly unlimited supplies of pain
pills???? It sure isn't hard to feed an addiction these days.
MLR | 11:15 a.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Good article. I personally also know Hal, even though I am a generation older.
He is someone that I respect, if not for anything other than his friendship.
Years ago in the days of the Bills Super Bowl, and Hal's glory days I
called him in New York requesting numerous Bills clothing items for myself and
friends. They were delivered to my home within the week. He didn't have to
do that or be bothered but he did. Hal is shouldering the blame for bad
decisions, but there is another side to this. Fame and fortune brings with it a
lot of hanger-ons, and I would bet anything he financed 75% of the social life
activities that went on with friends and family. Big heart, bad decisions. Its a
shame. Good luck Hal!
Been There | 12:04 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Been there done that, whatever happens don't let the stigma get to you and
get your children back into your life. Belive it they really love you. It's
very critical that you don't let your mind play the "I'M NO
GOOD" trick on you!
Also as we are all suppose to know that if we judge someone we will be judged harsher. OK good luck on the rest of your qwest, belive me your not alone brother. John J
Also as we are all suppose to know that if we judge someone we will be judged harsher. OK good luck on the rest of your qwest, belive me your not alone brother. John J
E Longest | 12:21 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
A short movie needs to be made of this tragic life and shown to every cild from
the ages of 10 to 17 years old.....the glory of sports is wonderful but this
man's choices in life caused him to pay with
life altering consquences.....many of us have experience with pain and suffering. I have spent the past year and a half with horrific nerve damage....my heart goes out to this man because it is a journey of constant medication seeking relief.
His greatest accomplishment will be repairing himself and knowing that he has self-worth.
God speed as you seek for a better day.....
life altering consquences.....many of us have experience with pain and suffering. I have spent the past year and a half with horrific nerve damage....my heart goes out to this man because it is a journey of constant medication seeking relief.
His greatest accomplishment will be repairing himself and knowing that he has self-worth.
God speed as you seek for a better day.....
Bob | 12:31 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
I am not from Utah but live here now. I never played Pro Football but I do know
what is like not to have your kids speak to you ever again. It hurts. It really
hurts and the pain never goes away. I am sorry that they have made this decision
and I believe they will be also someday. Good Luck Hal.
Bill | 1:40 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
It's a sad story but one that happens way too often in sports and in
everyday life. There is great need for more drug treatment centers and trained
people to run them. As sad as it is this story is not as bad as many. Like
some people will loose their life (or someone elses) before they hit bottom and
seek help. Addiction is a terrible, terrible thing...
Hogslice | 1:59 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Hang in there Mr. Garner. I lost my job of 16 years and my wife and kids over
painkillers about 8 years ago. I had 10 surgeries, two on the back with a
fusion, in 6 years. The physical pain was an excuse to medicate my emotional
pain. It took a long time to get my self under control and to realize the root
cause of my emotional pain. I now have a great relationship with my kids in
spite of their mother trying to slander me even to this day. Don't let the
ex, or those who don't understand, label you as a loser. Move on in spite
of their criticism and attempts to keep you down and labeled as an addict. The
truth about your inner character will prevail...with time, and it will expose
the true lack of character that the critics possess. And with time and
patience, your children will learn that you are a good person and will love you
again and you will have a relationship with them. It takes a ton of patience
and minute by minute, even second by second persistance. Hang in there!
Kim | 2:28 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Knew Hal as a kid. You could not have asked for a nicer person. The article
didn't mention that both his parents have passed away. (at least that is
what I heard) They were nice people, I would think that their passing away so
young would also be very painful. The Hal I knew would have been a great dad. He
and his brother and their buddies had so many great adventures. Hal, I know that
you can do this and I know that your kids will get to know the real you someday.
Hang in there buddy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope you and Paul
are still good friends. You seemed so close when I knew you. I agree about the
movie idea. Many people could learn from it. I also believe that Hal may have
inherited an addictive gene. That should b e addressed. Good luck and God Bless.
Sad Story | 4:13 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Makes me think of the story yesterday, and the moron who posted that it only
happened at BYU, not the other schools.
We live in a world that sports make you a star.
Would he do it again? Absolutely.
Would I do it if I had the chance?
Probably, in a second.
We live in a world that sports make you a star.
Would he do it again? Absolutely.
Would I do it if I had the chance?
Probably, in a second.
UtahKeith | 5:02 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
I grew up in the Buffalo NY area until the mid 90's when I moved to Utah
(My adopted Home Now!), I remember Hal well, he was one of my favorite players,
I thought he should start at linebacker he was so enthusiastic his emotions
carried him with his talent further than the starters talent (I thought). He was
a great example of how a player should be if they were fortunate enough to be
given the oportunity to play in the "Big Bad NFL", the greatest
Professional Sports League on Earth! This story saddens me very much. I would be
honored to be his friend, I am clean, and hope he would stay clean along the
way. We all have made mistakes and have had faults in our lives and all deserve
"forgiveness" and a "second chance". He still should be a
hometown hero, and remember he said he would do it again in a heartbeat.
Although I am sure he would change some things.
Riggs | 5:17 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Didn't know Hal but did know his parents who were great people (I was once
a Grizzly and also an Aggie). Saw Hal play a few times when we vistied Cache
Valley and really enjoyed seeing his great spirit on the football field. Hal,
have you ever considered putting it all on the line with the Savior and asking
for a very special home teacher by assignment from an inspired bishop or stake
president? I can't believe that one of the Aggie alumni in the twelve
(Elders Packer, Perry or Cook) wouldn't be glad to give you a blessing and
some special counsel. But in the end, it's in your court and great
miracles do happen, Hal, but only if you exercise the faith and determination to
seek them. I for one will be praying for your recovery.
Tiny | 7:18 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
I don't understand why his hometown wouldn't still consider Hal a
hero??!! He's come forward, told the truth and is doing his best. NOW is
the time when he needs family and friends and community to support him, not when
he's on top. Why is it family and friends forget someone at their lowest
point??!! I live in Utah, I would consider you a hero cause you are trying to
save another by sharing your story. That means more than touchdowns or how many
tackles made in a game. Good Luck Mr. Garner.
Linda | 7:48 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Mr. Garner, I hope that you will have the sucess that you deserve in your
personal life as well as the public persona. You have made the giganic first
step of admitting your problem.. No one should judge you until they have walked
in your shoes. Better yet; no one should judge at all. I hope and pray for the
best for you. Thank you for sharing your story. The person who suggested the
blessing is on the right track. My husband lives with cronic pain from a back
injury. I don't know how he would do it without the help of pain meds. It
is hard and I monitor the pills closley along with his Dr. So far so good. God
Bless.
Football Dad | 8:10 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Haven't you got anything better to write about? You obviously never made
it in sports, so you are bringing up these negative outcomes. Once again,
sports are a major deterrant to getting involved in destructive behavior such as
addictions. Why are you bringing up these exceptions?
Here's for Hope for Hal | 9:32 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
Good story. I believe this story helps others who suffer, or who knows someone
who is suffering, from addiction what the outcome can become. Everyone in life
will experience challenges. It is up to you to determine how to face your
challenge and improve your situation, no matter how hard it may seem at the
time. I hope Hal will find meaning and purpose in life. I hope others who read
this article will realize there is a consequence for decisions you will make. A
short career that leads to a life lost is a very sorrowful ending. However,
Hal's story isn't over yet....Good Luck Hal!
Dawn | 10:09 p.m. Oct. 28, 2007
This ia not the only young local NFL player who had or has a pain addiction.
There is a former Granitian, BYU and Dallas player who I saw while he lived in
my neighborhood. A renter who the rentee kicked him out because he was going
around the hood bumming money to pay for pain killers.
Colleen | 10:13 a.m. Oct. 29, 2007
I live by Hal and he is more fun to be around than anyone I know. He is in so
much pain and I am too I have distrophy and he and I lean on each other for
support.My children love him like a uncle. A little while ago when he had a
heart attack my daughter awncered the phone at 5:30 am and put him in the car
and took him to the hospital. She (Cassie) helped to save his life and would
help him in anything positive. Hal is so positive and caring. I don't know
what we would do with out him. He watches me and my grandson play outside and he
make sure that we both know how to hut 1 hut 2 hut 3 hike then my grandson runs
with the foot ball. My grandson is 2 yr old and loves him dearly. Thank you for
your big heart and unconditional love to all. Hal I understand you and thank you
for understanding me and my family we love you.
Nicole | 12:25 p.m. Oct. 29, 2007
Hal is my uncle, I know he would do it again in a heartbeat but do it
differently. Growing up this man was larger than life and my hero. I hope that
someday his children can see him the way I always have. I also hope that the
people of the community can forgive him for his mistakes. Also to adress above
comments his family has never forgotten about him and have been there for him
time after time. This is only a portion of the entire story.
VGK | 12:39 p.m. Oct. 29, 2007
Hal is a hero! Most people never get to experience what he has and suffer the
way he does. He is the most loving man you will ever know and has a heart bigger
than life. I have no doubt Hal will rise above this and have his life back. I
always told him the road to recovery is there he just needs to find the path! I
will always be there for you.
NBH | 4:55 p.m. Oct. 29, 2007
The game of football, at any level it is played, is the most dangerous sport
there is. It has been over ten years since I have played and I still feel the
effects almost everyday. If you are a parent with young kids interested in
sports, buy them golf clubs! That means you Nicole! Boy or Girl they will be
able to make a lot of money without the lifelong injuries.
Everyone makes mistakes in life. It is unfair to judge a person based on those mistakes. I believe everyone deserves a second chance, sometimes more. There is always heartache and doubt involved for those offering a second chance, but there is also hope. I know everytime my mother(Juli) had to help Hal she always had the hope that her little brother was going to do the right thing. She has always put others' needs ahead of her own.
I pray everyday that I will hear once again that my Uncle Hal is on top of the world. I know one day soon that will be reality.
Everyone makes mistakes in life. It is unfair to judge a person based on those mistakes. I believe everyone deserves a second chance, sometimes more. There is always heartache and doubt involved for those offering a second chance, but there is also hope. I know everytime my mother(Juli) had to help Hal she always had the hope that her little brother was going to do the right thing. She has always put others' needs ahead of her own.
I pray everyday that I will hear once again that my Uncle Hal is on top of the world. I know one day soon that will be reality.
Julie | 5:17 p.m. Oct. 29, 2007
You are a inspiration to all! You probably don't remember me. I met you
22 years ago. At the time I was a troubled 19 year old who drank excessively to
numb all the sadness I felt deep within. I thought so little of myself and
latched onto ballplayers with the hope that that would make me feel important
though it did the total opposite!
I'm not that same person anymore. I'm a RN by trade who takes care of cancer patients and a mom of a 8 year old little boy who is my whole life. I wish you all the best and I hope and pray that you find your way back to your children for you will get the most joy and meaning out of life from them.
I'm not that same person anymore. I'm a RN by trade who takes care of cancer patients and a mom of a 8 year old little boy who is my whole life. I wish you all the best and I hope and pray that you find your way back to your children for you will get the most joy and meaning out of life from them.
John | 5:58 p.m. Oct. 29, 2007
I remember traveling with the football team in the early 90's as a
spectator. The team physician was handing out pain killers to any player that
wanted them on the flight home without any conversation about their ailment.
little sis | 6:57 a.m. Oct. 30, 2007
I'm glad to see this article final being written. Hal for years has wanted
to share his story for two main reasons. 1. In hopes that no one else would ever
have to go through the pain, suffering, and lose the way that he did. 2. That
people he loves and cares about will have a better understanding the
difficulties and challenges he faces everyday. I am and always will be proud to
say Hal Garner is my brother! I hope and pray that one day his kids will be able
to forgive, trust and accept him for who he is not what mistakes he has made. It
will take time for this to happen so hold on big Bro ...<3 ya
Jodi | 11:03 a.m. Oct. 30, 2007
Hi Hal, I too meet you about 25 years ago, when we used to come up to Logan and
watch you and Kelly and Mike play at Utah State. Sandy, Sherry and Susan and I
remember the great times we had and I followed you and Mike at Buffalo, and to
this day I am a Buffalo fan. I used to love to watch you play. Sandy sent me
this article and it made me cry, and then glad that I might get an opportunity
to say hello. I am so sorry that this has happened to you, and I will pray for
you everyday. I have a 14 year old son who is 6'2 and 225 lbs who plays
football as a freshman. I just hope and pray that he will be half the man I
know you can be. It sounds like you have a great support system in your sister
and I remember you talking about her alot back then. The girls and I wish you
the best with your kids and your family. Jodi Worthy in La Mirada, CA,if you
ever get out here look me up. God Speed to you.
Kestle' Riley | 12:29 p.m. Oct. 30, 2007
GOD BLESS HAL!... Keep your chin up... -Kestle' Riley
Jeff | 1:16 p.m. Oct. 30, 2007
Hal, you and I were next door neighbors as kids. We were good friends, and high
school teammates in both football and basketball with lots of great memories.
You saved me many times when those full sweeps came to our side of the field. I
have many happy memories of your kindness to me. My heart is heavy to hear of
the difficulties you are facing. There are many of us pulling for you and pray
that you can find the physical, emotional, and spiritual strength to get back on
top. You have a kind heart and can still accomplish great things. I know many of
your childhood friends are praying for your welfare. May the Lord lift and
bless you as you continue to work through this. Sincerely, Jeff in Kent,WA.
Jayne Blauer Christensen | 3:50 p.m. Oct. 30, 2007
Hal, don't ever give up on yourself and your family! Keep the faith, stay
on task, and lots of prayers!! I love you!!!
Old Grizzly | 1:51 p.m. Oct. 31, 2007
I played with Hal on the high school team. I remember him yelling at me during
practice because I didn't hit him hard enough during scrimmages. He was a
football animal. It is interesting to hear Hal talk about how important his
family is now. I agree !! This is a great lesson for all of us that after
everything is said and done and the stadium lights are dimmed it all comes back
to the family. The road of fame and glory often borders dangerous cliffs. I
think Hal could teach a sunday school lesson or two on the subject. I hope he
will continue to share what he has learned. I know his older brother and younger
sister. Great people! I believe they can come together on this one. I am sure
they have been lending him support as much as possible. God bless you Hal, I am
sure there are many from your community and ward that are pulling for you. I
know I am.
Karin Chaffin Newman | 6:14 p.m. Oct. 31, 2007
Hal, Your Aunt Karin loves you and prays for you. I know your mother is doing
the same. If ever you need to communicate with me, my e-mail address is
ctnewmanjr@aol.com.
Love you,
Karin
Love you,
Karin
Larry | 1:41 a.m. Nov. 6, 2007
I grew up just around the corner from Hal and his family. We were in the same
class all the way through school and attended church together. We played
basketball and football through our high school years. I cherish those years
and my experiences that I had with him!
Hopefully all of us that know Hal personally can find a way to let him know that he is loved by many!
Larry Anchorage, Alaska
Hopefully all of us that know Hal personally can find a way to let him know that he is loved by many!
Larry Anchorage, Alaska
D | 2:33 p.m. Nov. 11, 2007
Unfortunatley, I am one of Hal's old Grade School/High School buddies who
moved away and lost track of Hal. Most of my fondest memories growing up
involved Hal and all our buddies. I got to expreience so many fun things with
Hal, but unfortunatley, wasn't around to support him through all of this.
Hal has a gift for inspiring people, making them laugh, and getting them to push
themselves. He made me a better football player, a better track sprinter, (even
if I did drop the baton once or twice during our relays), and a better person. I
hope he can find a way to use that gift going forward. Even though our lives
drifted radically apart since HS, I still consider Hal as one of my best freinds
and am proud to have grown up with him.
Jim Jenkins | 11:49 a.m. Dec. 11, 2007
God bless you, "Studmufinn!"
Scott Bladen | 2:25 a.m. Dec. 30, 2007
Good Luck Hal! Having grown up in Logan a few years behind you, I followed your
career and was always proud of your accomplishments. I have a really good friend
who has shared your struggle with pain killers and I empathize with your
situation but know that you are in the driver's seat as far as that goes. I
wish you the best and hope that you can find the happiness you deserve.
B | 2:19 p.m. Oct. 8, 2008
I'm also one of Hal's old buddies. Together, we played little league,
jr. high, and high school football together. Since going our own directions, I
also lost track of him. Now, after reading this article, I thankfully have a
better idea of his whereabouts. We live through our consequences of our
decisions - good and bad. And I hope for the best for Hal as many supporters and
friends like me still see him as a local hero. Whether he knows it or not, many
people would love to welcome him back in their lives and see all the good he has
to offer.
Tia, Providence, Utah | 5:04 p.m. Oct. 9, 2008
Hal! I have tried to keep track of you over the years, and I have had 3 people
email me the link to this article which I read with interest. You'll
always be a hero in my eyes! :)
Dwight Storay | 10:29 a.m. Dec. 18, 2008
Good Luck Hal. Keep God in your life and you will never feel lonely. Thanks for
being a freind and a teammate at USU. All your teammates from Ca. are pulling
for you.
nate oneal | 9:36 a.m. July 30, 2009
hal, just wanted you to know that my thoughts an prayers are with you and your
family. nate oneal
Mary | 9:01 p.m. Aug. 9, 2009
I used to babysit for Hal a long time ago. Lived just up the street from him. I
don't know every little thing that happened in his life, but I still think
of how nice he was to me even today. I still consider him a great man.
Can't Say | 8:37 a.m. Oct. 22, 2009
I worked at the Utah State Prison when Mr. Garner was there. He was a great man
while he stayed with us. It was heart wrenching to hear of his story then, and
it brings tears to my eyes to read it again. Mr. Garner always did what was
expected of him and more. He tried to get other inmates to act in a more
appropriate manner and was a very hard worker. I have more respect for this man
than I do of some people in my distant family. It could be possible for this
man to change the lives of many people and teach them from his personal life if
given the chance. Mr. Garner, I wish you well and pray that your kids will come
to realize that you need them and can somehow forgive you and support you in
your recovery efforts.
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