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  1986 Northwest Player of the Year

 

Harry Washington

Wide Receiver/Return Specialist

Auburn Panthers

 

The title of Superstar is one that is rarely given and even less seldom attained.  Washington is one of those special individuals who has done more than just received the title, he earned it.  The 30-year old Tacoma native played at every level from Foss High, to Colorado State University to the NFL and has been singled out for his talents at every turn.  As former teammate Ahmad Rashad used to say, "The eye don't lie."

His on field play has led to overall League MVP honors in 1984, and again here in 1986.  He was 1985 NFA Offensive Player of the Year, with his numbers in '86 rewriting the record books, but he's more than stats.

Few who saw him play will forget the 36-yard mid-air catch that set up the game winning touchdown in the waning moments of the Panthers first season opener against Bellevue.  Or the game-winning 80 yard punt return late in the fourth quarter against Skagit Valley.  Skagit Valley felt the brunt of Washington's magic a second time with a 75 yard catch and run for an overtime TD in 1985.

1986 was Washington's finest of his minor league career.  Despite being double and triple teamed on nearly every play, Harry caught 38 passes for 793 yards and 16 TD's during the regular season.  He capped his brilliant year with 7 catches for 158 yards and 3 TD's to lead the Panthers to the National Championship in Champions Bowl I.  Following the game, Washington stated, "I've been in the NFL.  I've played in the NFL playoffs, but you can put all that aside today.  This is the biggest thrill of my life.  When you win a championship, that is as good as it gets."

His NFA records for 1986 include 19 TD's, 938 yards on 45 receptions.  He added 27 punt returns for 398 yards and 2 TD's.  He also added 2 kickoff returns for 33 yards.

 

   

 

 
 
 
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