By Robert Balajadia

The Guam High Panthers were pleased to announce Thursday evening that their very own football star senior Lewis Harris would be signing his national letter of intent to play football for the Pima Aztecs in Arizona after his final semester with the Panthers.

As soon as Harris let the media and those in attendance know he was headed to Arizona, he took off his Guam High Panthers cap and flipped on his new Pima Aztecs cap, just as athletes do on the national level.

“It seemed like the right choice to me,” said Harris on choosing to become an Aztec. “Based off what the coaches were telling me and the teams goals as a whole, is what influenced my decision.”

Harris is fulfilling his dream of playing football at the collegiate level and his success in the recruiting process can serve as a beacon to those who also have dreams of playing football at a higher level than just high school.

Panthers Lewis Harris officially signs his letter of intent to play for the Pima Aztecs. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

“There is a great support network [on Guam] for football. This is not just Guam High sending Lewis off, this is a great thing for Guam. Senator Brent McCredie helped a tremendous amount in getting Lewis this opportunity, also we have guys like Mike Cruz (GSPN reporter), who helped push to get Guam involved in the Hawaii Bowl, along with Chad Ikea,” stated Harris’ high school Panthers coach Jacob Dowdell.

Playing on Guam has taught Harris valuable lessons on and off the field, and he made sure to give credit to the island for it.

“My experience playing on Guam not only changed me as a player but also me as a person. I enjoyed the company and hospitality here and the level of play here is no different than the main-land,” Harris.

Harris also elaborated on his support system, which has guided him in every step of the way.

“Without God, this would’t be possible. My parents (Lewis & Patricia), my coaches, my teammates, senator Brent McCredie, Michael Cruz, and Chad Ikea. Everybody involved has been a big part of everything I’ve been able to achieve,” said Harris.

Harris will be leaving the island late June to officially join the Aztecs after his final semester. He mentioned possibly majoring in Journalism or Sports Medicine on the academic side and wanted to let the youth on Guam know that a higher level football is definitely possible.

“Work hard everyday and come in with the same mentality. Strive to be the best player on the field, just go out and give it your all.”

Harris is joined by his some of his supporting cast after the official signing. (photo by Robert Balajadia)