« Football 2014

Charles Harris

School
Memphis
Position
Linebacker
Major
Sport and Leisure Science Management

Classroom

A Sport and Leisure Management major at the University of Memphis, Charles Harris carries a 3.64 grade point average. He has earned Dean’s List distinction five times including each of the past three semesters at Memphis. Additionally, Charles has earned Tiger 3.0 recognition every semester at Memphis. He was named to the inaugural American Athletic Conference All-Academic Football Team following the 2013 season. Previously, he earned Conference USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll accolades for both the 2011-12 and 2012-13 academic years.

Character

As a sophomore, Charles was named to then, first-year football coach Justin Fuente’s initial Leadership Council. The 10-member council was formed from players who were not only leaders but also had already separated themselves as the type of individuals the new coaching staff wanted for their program. In three seasons, Charles has endured a program that has only won nine games during his career. Despite the program just now regaining its footing, Charles has told the media he wouldn’t trade the experience of playing for his hometown team for anything. “I know it sounds corny and somewhat cliched, but I love the bonds I’ve made with my teammates. I know I’ll be in contact with these guys forever. I’ll be calling and checking in with them.

Community

Charles has certainly been involved in the community service projects his team has participated in, primarily visiting with children at area elementary schools. He was a volunteer at Sea Isle Elementary’s May Day Festival. He was a counselor and organizer at Center Hill Elementary’s Track and Field Day. He also prepared a speech and spoke to the students of Hanley Elementary about the importance of an education. But beyond those activities, he has done much more on his own. Tommy Dennis is one of the team’s most avid fans. He has been involved in hosting student-athletes in his home for NCAA-approved occasional meals. Charles had previously dined with the Dennis family. Last December, Mr. Dennis was diagnosed with a brain tumor. In February, Charles texted Mr. Dennis’ wife and asked about coming over to visit. Charles, along with three teammates, again came to the Dennis’ home to visit. In an effort to lift Mr. Dennis’ spirits, the group brought an autographed football from the team along with a pair of team hats.  Organizing the visit to the Dennis’ home is just one of the many things he has done in the community which are shared long after the fact.

Competition

On the field, Charles has started every game over the last two seasons (24) at linebacker and has participated in all 36 games the Tigers have played during his career. He heads into his senior year with 186 career tackles (82 solo hits) to go along with 5.5 tackles for loss, a quarterback sack and three pass breakups. He has led the Tigers in tackles the past two season (74 last year as a junior). In addition to being a team captain each of the past three seasons, Charles is the quarterback of the defense. He makes all the calls and checks for the defensive unit. Defensive coordinator Barry Odom said of Charles, “He’s the guy in the box who can make a change for us and get guys lined up correctly. He has played a lot of game reps and has been a steady fixture for two years in the middle of our defense. He’s really, really valuable to what we are trying to get done.” Head coach Justin Fuente added, “He’s incredibly focused and hardworking. He’s going to be successful in anything he does.