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I have been
alive now for 63 years and have seen many events and come to some very
unshakeable convictions. One item I am completely certain of is that
Allen Galloway, also an Alderson Alumni, is the first or second best
runner I have ever seen in my life. He could run over an entrenched tank
and he was faster than a rabbit would turn on a penny. The only runner
who may have been better was the great Jim Brown, but no conclusion has
been reached on that.
Now Allen Galloway was also an excellent passer. He
could throw the ball right into your hands no matter how adverse the
circumstances. I only dropped one pass in my entire career as end with
the Alderson Indians and that was totally my fault as he always put it
where it was catch able.
Our senior year when we were on our way to going undefeated (until the
state championship loss) we were pitted against Union. This was a team
which always had really big rough country boys and they hit savagely.
Early in the fourth quarter we were leading by one touchdown. Suddenly
we found ourselves trapped on the one yard line. Union had their chance,
twice we ran play 38 off the right side of our line. After the second
time we appeared to be as close to the goal line as you can be and still
be on the good side. Third down only the play caller speaks in the
huddle; Galloway, with enormous creativity says “ 38 left over your
posterior Hughes!” As I approached the line I saw a 240 pound player
named Eric Wickel and behind him crouched the rugged linebacker Ronnie
Bostic. The play commenced and I put Wickel on his posterior and Bostic
fell over us.
At that moment I heard the most volcanic powerful force I
have ever heard or felt. Allan Galloway went past so fast and so hard
that when I got on my feet he was in Unions end zone and he had put the
victory out of Unions reach.
As I said, Galloway was the best runner I have ever
seen in America anywhere. It was a great honor and privilege to play
with a man of his talent and I am so honored and proud to say we are
still close friends to this day. I think everyone should know how some
feel about you Allen-may God always protect you. |
