Luke Gallagher II was born to play football. His skill, effort and dedication to his craft has landed him the 2025 Milford 12th Man Gridiron Club. The 1995 graduate was a three year varsity letter winner, one year 1st team all-conference and 1st team all-state. He was also recognized as Honorable Mention USA Today All-American at offensive tackle.
While it would be easy enough to focus on his skill as an offensive tackle, it would be a mistake. Gallagher was a player that never came off the field, when it came to leadership, Gallagher demonstrated it by doing whatever he was asked to in order to help the Buccaneers. In addition to offensive tackle, Gallagher played defensive end, nose tackle, tight end, full back and special teams.
“I truly loved the game and I never wanted to leave the field. With regards to playing all those different positions, if it was needed and I could do it I did.”
For those of you that may not remember, Gallagher was joining a Milford squad with a rather dubious record. By the time he became a full time starter as a sophomore, Milford had not won a football game in 40 consecutive tries. That would all change in the opening game of the 1993 season as Milford would defeat Indian River to break the losing streak.
“Breaking that losing streak was very important to us, it was the beginning of a return for respectability for Milford football,” Gallagher said. “We were all so proud to be a part of it, we proved to others and ourselves that Milford could win and I honestly believe that helped future teams understand what they could do if they put their mind to it.”
Gallagher was a single sport athlete, which he contributes to his being able to excel at football.
“My first and only love when it came to sports was football. Other guys would play different sports as the year went on, but I focused on training and conditioning,” Gallagher said. “It was just the way I was wired. When coach Golacinski, along with so many other coaches came on board, they really helped me. If I had a question, they had an answer. Also having the support of my family was very important to me.”
Following his high school career, Gallagher went to Del State. While he may have enjoyed the prospect of playing college ball, he also realized that he had other things to consider when taking stock in his future.
“I realized pretty quickly that trying to carry a full course load, play football and hold down a job was not going to work. I decided to leave school my freshman year and go to work full time to support myself,” Gallagher said. “I was a solid carpenter and really found the work fulfilling so for me it was an easy decision and has brought me to where I am now. I am a superintendent/project manager for The Trinity Budd Group, traveling around the country on major construction projects.”
While Gallagher didn’t play college ball, he did play a number of years semi-pro in Delaware. He would spend two season with the Eastern Sussex Grizzlies and three more with the Kent County Fire. He was also a member of the Diamond State Football All-Stars, the first team to beat the Fasco All-Stars.
As for being named to the Hall of Fame, Gallagher indicated he was thrilled with the decision.
“After a while, you begin to wonder if anyone remembers you and when you kind of give up hope you get a phone call and you are shocked. I am truly humbled and honored to be included in such great company.”
