Gary Ham, the University of Virginia’s first Black varsity football player, broke barriers on the field and beyond. Despite facing racism and adversity, Ham’s resilience and faith shaped his journey from athlete to minister, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and inspiration.
Breaking Barriers on the Field
In 1969, Gary Ham arrived at the University of Virginia on an ROTC scholarship, not expecting to play football. But his love for the game led him to try out for the varsity team in 1970. Despite never having a Black player on its roster, U.Va. accepted Ham as a walk-on cornerback.
“I played football in high school, and I loved the game,” Ham said. “My love for football was there, and therefore I went out for football when I got to U.Va.”
Ham’s time on the team was marked by challenges, but he made his mark. In a 1972 game against West Virginia, he tackled All-American wide receiver Danny Buggs, a moment he calls his “claim to fame.” Though his football career ended early due to injury, Ham’s courage paved the way for future Black athletes at U.Va.
A University Divided
Ham’s experience at U.Va. extended beyond the football field. As one of only about 20 Black students on campus, he faced prejudice and isolation. The university’s integration process was slow and met with resistance, reflecting the broader racial tensions of the era.
In 1970, Ham witnessed the May Days protests, where students demonstrated against the Vietnam War and low African American enrollment. State troopers arrested protesters, an event that deeply affected Ham. “If they treat white kids this way, what will they do to us?” he recalled thinking.
Despite these challenges, Ham found solace in his faith and community. He attended a local African American church, which provided meals and a sense of belonging. “Religion defined an entire generation of African American students struggling with oppression,” Ham said.
Finding Purpose in Ministry
A turning point in Ham’s life came during Black History Month in 1973, when he heard Black minister Tom Skinner speak on Grounds. Skinner’s message about finding respect through a relationship with Jesus Christ deeply resonated with Ham.
“His life was our lives,” Ham said. “His struggles were our struggles. The better way of finding [respect] is a relationship with Jesus Christ.”
After graduating in 1973 and fulfilling his military commitment, Ham pursued a career in ministry. He attended Elim Bible Institute in New York and has been involved in gospel ministry ever since. Today, he continues to serve as a minister in upstate New York.
A Lasting Legacy
Looking back, Ham is proud of how far U.Va. has come in embracing diversity and inclusion. “It’s encouraging and promising to see such community and diversity at U.Va.,” he said.
Though he no longer lives in Charlottesville, Ham remains a devoted fan of U.Va. football. “I’m an avid fan,” he said. “Wahoo all the way.”
Gary Ham’s story is one of resilience, faith, and breaking barriers. His legacy as a trailblazer in sports and ministry continues to inspire generations.
