anchor

Written by Louis Fernandez, WRAL Sports anchor.

Campbell University went all out in welcoming its new head football coach, Braxton Harris, on Thursday afternoon at the John W. Pope Jr. Convocation Center. The event included cheerleaders, a mascot, and the traditional photo opportunity with a football jersey. This celebration is fitting, as Harris is only the third head coach in Campbell’s recent football history, dating back to 2008.

“In under twenty years, the program has transformed from obscurity to a successful, formidable football team recognized within the state, the region, and the country,” stated Athletics Director Hannah Bazemore.

Previously with Dale Steele and Mike Minter, the list now welcomes Harris, a Texas native, as a coach.

Harris has previous experience in Buies Creek, having served as an associate head coach, linebackers coach, and recruiting coordinator for the Camels from 2021 to 2022.

According to Bazemore, he became very invested in both the department and the community.

After the 2022 season, he departed to become the head coach at Houston Christian in Texas. Following a disappointing two-win season, the Huskies concluded 2023 with a 6-5 record. Despite this success, the question remains: why come back to North Carolina?

Harris expressed that ultimately, it boils down to the support of the people. As a family man with a wife and children, Harris and his loved ones have been embraced by the community here. He also mentioned the importance of being able to work in harmony with University President Dr. J. Bradley Creed and Hannah Bazemore, which will greatly benefit his role.

University President Dr. J. Bradley Creed stated that there are major changes happening in college football and athletics currently. He has observed more changes in the past five years than in the preceding 25 years. However, Campbell University will remain a source of stability, prioritizing academic and amateur values. Coach Harris is well-equipped to guide our success on and off the field and in our personal lives.

In the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, the Camels had records of 3-8, 5-6, and 5-6 respectively. In December, Minter stepped down as head coach after leading the team for 11 seasons. Harris expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to work under the previous head coach at Campbell.

Harris expressed gratitude for the time he spent with Coach Minter, stating that he would not be in his current position without the opportunity given to him by a Division III football coach to coach at the Division I level.

Harris stated that the team is not lacking in talent. They simply need to come together and unite in order to achieve our shared vision and goals.

The upcoming year, 2024, will present difficulties for the Harris and Camels team in their second season in the Coastal Athletic Association. However, the newly appointed head coach is prepared for the challenge.

Harris stated that it is crucial for everyone to work together as a united team in order to move this program forward. Their goal is to create a program that will bring a sense of pride to all who are part of the Campbell Camel community.

The team will kick off their season with consecutive away games against Liberty on August 31 and Western Carolina on September 7.

Source: wralsportsfan.com