Mike Harris, a veteran coach who has spent three decades shaping high school athletics in central Pennsylvania, announced that he will relinquish his duties as the Claysburg‑Kimmel boys basketball coach and the Hollidaysburg Area softball coach at the end of the current season.
A Legacy of Wins
Over 34 years, Harris transformed a program that once hovered near the bottom of the Inter‑County Conference into a perennial contender, culminating in a school‑record 20 victories in a single season and the program’s first state playoff triumph — a 63‑62 thriller over Muncy in the 2024 PIAA tournament.
His influence extended beyond the hardwood. Harris also helped rebuild the Hollidaysburg softball program, a effort that saw the team double its win total this year, laying a foundation for future success.
Beyond the Scoreboard
Harris will continue to lead the Claysburg‑Kimmel golf team, a role he says will allow him to stay connected to the athletes he has mentored. While he plans to step back from day‑to‑day coaching, he remains open to assisting other programs and sharing the lessons he has learned over his long career.
Among his many memories, Harris cites a 51‑50 victory over Portage in his first season as his most cherished moment, a game that still resonates with the community.
Reflecting on his record, Harris notes a cumulative record of 103‑151 at Claysburg‑Kimmel and 170‑216 overall, achievements made possible by the dedication of players like senior scorer Brayden Haney, who amassed 1,843 career points under his guidance.