Michael Harris is a redshirt senior majoring in business management who has played for the University of Central Missouri Mules Football since 2023 as a defensive lineman. Harris is a standout player with a great attitude and work ethic both on and off the field. He appreciates his deep relationship with his coaches, who have been supportive in his life beyond football, and his friendships with his teammates.
“Mike is a fantastic representative of our football program,” said head coach Josh Lamberson. “He embodies what it is to be ‘one of us’ with how he chooses to conduct his life both on and off the field. He is selfless, tough, disciplined and has grit – our core values in our program. I am very proud of Mike and the progress he has made in his life and as a football player the last several years in our program.”
Over the course of his career at UCM in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Harris has played in 22 games and has had 36 tackles. He has also been awarded the MIAA Academic Honor Roll in 2023 and 2024.
“My mindset is simple: refuse to be blocked and be relentless,” said Harris. “As a defensive lineman, the goal is never to be stopped by one man. We want to force opponents to double-team me, creating opportunities for my teammates. Even when double-teamed, I’m still striving to impact every play.”
Lamberson is known by his players as a supportive and caring coach who prioritizes their growth on and off the field. Harris describes Lamberson as someone who believes in him and pushes him to succeed, while also reminding the team to take care of themselves beyond football.
“It’s definitely more than just a player-to-coach relationship,” said Harris. “I actually feel like it’s deeper than that. I feel like I can talk to them about anything, whatever I need to talk to them about, not just the head coach. Really any coach on the staff, I feel like I can have meaningful conversations with them outside of football,” said Harris.
Harris’s relationship with the football team is built off of trust and friendship. As he prepares for graduation, he takes the memories and cherishes the moments that not only he will miss, but take with him as he moves on from UCM.
“I think the number one thing definitely is the connections I’ve built with my teammates. So being able to build those friendships and connections with people that I think will last the rest of my life, and getting to know them over the years, we’ve grown together over the years, and I think that’s the most important thing, and then, like, the number one thing I’ll miss when I graduate,” said Harris.
Kyan Franklin is a redshirt sophomore defensive end for UCM football. Franklin shares a bond with teammate Harris not only as his roommate, but also best friend. According to Franklin, Harris brings an outgoing nature, competitive spirit and leadership qualities to the team.
“Michael’s mentality toward everything is defined by a relentless pursuit of winning. He is a winner and a competitor who constantly strived to be the best, always giving his all and refusing to let anyone outwork him. He’s gonna give it his all. So that stands out the most,” said Franklin.
Franklin states the impact Harris has had on the team. Harris’s influence extends beyond his personal performance to the rest of the team.
“He will be missed when he leaves but he has set the culture in our shared room so there will be no drop-off. People will step up because of the culture he has set,” said Franklin.
