Who Was Harry Agganis?
Harry Agganis: The Golden Greek
Agganis Arena honors Aristotle George “Harry” Agganis, Boston University’s greatest athlete and one of the most remarkable all-around athletes in American sports history.
Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, in 1929 to Greek immigrants, Harry was an extraordinary athlete – but his legacy was defined just as much by his courage, humility, loyalty and character.
From Lynn to Boston University
At Lynn Classical High School, Harry was a three-time baseball All-American and a football All-American, captaining both teams. He received more than 75 college scholarship offers before choosing Boston University to remain close to his family and community.
At BU, Harry played nearly every role on the football field – quarterback, defensive back, punter, kicker and more. In 1949, he:
- Set an NCAA record with 15 interceptions, which still stands
- Threw 15 touchdown passes
- Led the nation in punting with a 46.5-yard average
- Played approximately 59 minutes per game
He finished his BU career with 27 interceptions in three varsity seasons, became the University’s first football All-American and served as team captain. His No. 33 was later retired, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974.
Harry’s character was evident early. In 1947, he declined an invitation to a prestigious postseason football game because two of his Black teammates had not been invited.
Service to His Country
Harry interrupted his college career to serve in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. While stationed at Camp Lejeune, he earned All-Marine honors in both football and baseball and was named MVP of the National Baseball Congress tournament.
A Star in Two Sports
The Cleveland Browns selected Harry 12th overall in the 1952 NFL Draft. At the 1953 Senior Bowl, he excelled on offense, defense and special teams, throwing two touchdown passes, making two interceptions and recording 14 tackles on his way to MVP honors.
Despite a lucrative offer from the Browns, Harry chose baseball. He signed with his hometown Boston Red Sox and made his major-league debut in 1954. In 1955, he was batting .313 when his career – and his life – was cut tragically short.
Harry remains one of the rare athletes to be both a first-round NFL draft pick and a Major League Baseball “bonus baby.”
A Legacy Beyond Athletics
Harry was admired not only for his athletic ability, but for his generosity, humility and commitment to young people. He regularly spoke to students and community groups about education, perseverance, sportsmanship and making good choices.
He never lost his connection to his family, his Greek heritage, Lynn or Boston University.
Harry Agganis died on June 27, 1955, at just 26 years old. Thousands gathered to mourn a young man whose extraordinary promise had only begun to unfold.
His legacy, however, continues.
Boston University retired his No. 33, established scholarships and awards in his name, and ultimately named Agganis Arena in his honor. His bronze statue stands outside the Arena, welcoming visitors and commemorating the remarkable young man behind the name.
Why the Arena Bears His Name
Agganis Arena is more than a venue named for a legendary athlete. It is a lasting tribute to a Boston University icon whose life embodied excellence in competition, courage in his convictions and loyalty to others.
Honor. Courage. Excellence.
That is the legacy of Harry Agganis – and why this arena proudly bears his name.
