By Gene Stanley/Sports Correspondent
When Morgan Harris began attending Southside Middle School, she joined the volleyball and basketball teams.
Six years later, she has played both programs but has really blossomed at volleyball. Her talent and work ethic led her to a scholarship at Truett-McConnell Christian College, as she signed a letter of intent on Friday (May 2) at SHS.
“I can’t say enough good things about Morgan,” Southside High volleyball coach Anna Johnson said. “I’d be thrilled to death if I could keep her or have an entire team of Morgan Harrises.”
Harris was a unanimous choice as team captain for the 2013 season. The whole team voted and not one voted for anyone besides Harris, according to Johnson.
Southside principal Dr. Marguerite Early noted that Harris is a good role model for younger kids and is someone “who touches your heart.”
“There are always a few kids who touch you, but Morgan is truly special. And you don’t have to guess what she’s doing. She is what she is.”
Harris is the second Southside volleyball player to sign this spring. Molly Tucker signed to play at Wallace State-Hanceville. Harris finished the 2013 season with 173 kills, 146 blocks, 68 aces and 23 digs while helping the 2013 Lady Panthers post a 43-13 record, win the county and area tournaments and make it to the quarterfinals of North Super Regional Tournament. She was selected to both the Class 5A, All-Area 13 Tournament and to the All-Etowah County team. Harris also received the team Scholar Award for highest GPA.
“The team, the school and the community will truly miss her,” Johnson said. “Not just her volleyball but her attitude and spirit will be missed.”
So how did a college in Cleveland, Georgia find Southside?
Morgan’s father, Scott Harris, is a minister and he knows the president of Truett-McConnell. Things worked out so that Morgan Harris was allowed to go through drills and practice with the team as a tryout.
“God led me there,” Morgan Harris said. “I’m excited about getting to play at a Christian school and being able to help spread God’s word while playing a sport I love.”
