Nominate an Athlete for the All State Game

As the sun sets over the gymnasium and the echoes of sneakers on polished wood floors fade away, one name stands out among the constellation of figures in youth sports: Allan Bernard Harris Sr. His career, marked by passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to youth athletics, has led him to an impressive milestone—the role of an official coach for the 2025 All State Game. This prestigious event celebrates the top talent from across the state, and with Harris at the helm, there’s no doubt that it will embody the spirit of excellence in athletics.

A Legacy in Motion

Allan Harris’s journey began on the hard courts of Siena Heights College, where he showcased his exceptional talent as a four-year NCAA Division I basketball player. An illustrious career took him beyond the shores of the United States, where he played professionally in Madrid, Spain, from 1990 to 1994. His sportsmanship and dedication not only earned him a place in Siena Heights College’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999 but also laid a solid foundation upon which he would build a long and fruitful coaching career.

Harris’s resume weaves through various coaching roles, each one a testament to his adaptability and relentless pursuit of excellence. Beginning as the head coach for boys’ basketball, football, and track at River Road Middle School, to making impactful contributions as an assistant coach at Virginia State University and Norfolk State University, Harris has imparted knowledge and inspiration on countless young athletes. His experience culminated in the pivotal role as the head coach at Mid-Atlantic Christian University, where he celebrated a National Invitation Tournament Championship in 2018 and was honored as the NSAC Coach of the Year in 2021.

Passion Meets Purpose

But beyond statistics and accolades lies a deeper commitment that fuels Harris’s coaching philosophy. His educational achievements—a Master’s in Education and an Education Specialist degree from Cambridge College—equip him with the necessary tools to nurture not only athletic talent but also the intellectual and emotional growth of young players. Harris believes that helping athletes develop their skill sets goes hand in hand with fostering their character.

This is a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the mission of the All State Game—providing a platform for talented athletes to shine while ensuring that dedication and diligence are the primary measures of success. Harris’s understanding of the numerous challenges athletes face—both on and off the court—ensures that each player feels seen, valued, and prepared to step up when it counts.

Representation and Impact

The All State Game seeks to unite elite athletes from various backgrounds, creating a vibrant tapestry of talent, dedication, and competitive spirit. Harris’s reputation as a mentor makes him ideal for guiding participants who aspire to represent their communities while facing off against rival teams across the state. His ability to evaluate talent objectively and harness it into a cohesive unit will surely impact the lives of athletes at all levels.

Harris understands that financial constraints shouldn’t sideline talent; thus, he is a fierce advocate for equitable opportunities in sports. The All State Game’s commitment to inclusivity echoes his belief that every athlete deserves a shot, regardless of their socio-economic background. With Harris steering the ship as coach, participants can feel assured that they will have equal access to resources and support.

The Road Ahead

As the countdown to the 2025 All State Game begins, there’s palpable excitement surrounding Allan Bernard Harris Sr.’s involvement. His wealth of experience, deep connections to the game, and profound investment in the youth sports community position him as a mentor who will leave an indelible mark not just on the athletes in his charge, but on the very future of youth athletics.

He stands poised to transform the All State Game into an unforgettable experience filled with lessons, triumphs, and the celebration of community and talent. For Harris, this isn’t merely a game; it’s a platform for nurturing future leaders not just in sports, but in life.

In a world that often defines success by numbers and accolades, Coach Allan Harris reminds us that the essence of sports lies in cultivating joy, resilience, and a deep love of the game. As he takes on this integral role, the legacy of his coaching journey will undoubtedly inspire the stars of tomorrow.