“I’m so blessed for our time” - Michael Phelps mourns the passing of his mental health coach Greg Harden

Michael Phelps mourned the passing of his mental health coach Greg Harden, who died at the age of 75. Harden worked with the 23-time Olympic gold medalist ahead of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, having played a key role in helping Bob Bowman improve his communication with the champion swimmer.

Harden, who joined the University of Michigan as a student-athlete counselor in 1986, also counseled numerous student-athletes at the University of Michigan. They include prominent names like former professional football quarterback and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, Heisman Trophy winners Desmond Howard and Charles Woodson, and former basketball player and now sports analyst Jalen Rose.

Notably, Michael Phelps, who faced mental health challenges during his competitive career, has become a vocal advocate for the same as he works toward challenging the stigma around the illness. He has encouraged open discussions on the topic, frequently involved in conversations about his experiences.

Following Harden’s death, the most decorated Olympic athlete Phelps took to his Instagram story to mourn the loss of his passing, writing:

“My guy G. I’m so blessed for our time 🙏 R.I.P.”

Screenshot of Michael Phelps' Instagram story

Earlier, Michigan Athletics shared about Harden's passing away on their X handle. The cause of death is known to be complications owing to surgery. The statement read:

“Long-time University of Michigan Administrator Greg Harden, best known as the mental coach for thousands of student-athletes who competed for the university and countless others around the world, has passed away after complications from surgery. During his time at Michigan, Harden became known in many circles as the school's "Secret Weapon" for his work behind the scenes helping Wolverine athletes achieve peak performance.”

“The family appreciates all the thoughts and prayers but they ask that you grant them some privacy as they deal with the loss of their loved one,” the statement added.

Jon Urbanchek, another influential figure in Michael Phelps’ life, passed away in 2024

Michael Phelps at the Rio Olympics (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images)

Jon Urbanchek, the University of Michigan’s swimming head coach between 1982 and 2004 and later replaced by Bob Bowman, lost his life in May 2024 at 87. Since he played an instrumental role in Michael Phelps' success, the legendary swimmer dedicated a post for his collegiate career’s swimming coach via Instagram.

“I’m beyond grateful for the time I got to spend with @jonurb. I can still hear him saying “keep it moving” “ey , _____ MOVE IT!”…. Thinking about what he taught me in and out of the pool… one of the most influential ppl I’ve had in my life…this man is a legend and truly one of one! RIP buddy…. ❤️❤️”he wrote.

It is worth noting that Urbanchek also served as a coach for the U.S. national swimming team and mentored the Olympic squads for the 1988 Seoul, 1992 Barcelona, 1996 Atlanta, 2000 Sydney, and 2004 Athens Summer Olympics.