In just his second year wearing Orange and Blue, Reggie Harris ’19 has hugely contributed to his track and field team’s success, and has set high expectations for the his next two seasons.

Growing up an injury-prone multi-sport athlete, Harris was introduced to track and field in sixth grade after being encouraged by his parents. It wasn’t until sophomore year of high school that he realized his heart belonged on the track.

“I don’t think I truly fell in love with the sport until my jumps coach my sophomore year of high school told me I had potential to do it at the next level. After that, I couldn’t stop thinking about getting better in every event I did,” Harris said.

Along with the guidance of his coach, Harris’s raw talent and passion led him to leading an incredibly successful high school career, breaking school records for indoor and outdoor triple jump. Harris’s dreams of running in college led him to the gates of the University, where he was sold after meeting assistant coach Bryan Delsite.

Harris wasted no time in establishing himself as a critical member of the team, starting with his premier in college indoor track. During his first season, he accomplished two top-five triple jump finishes, as well as taking fifth place in the event at Patriot League Indoor Championships. He opened the outdoor season by taking gold in the triple jump at the Jim Taylor Invitational, and scoring at the Patriot League Outdoor Championships.

During the 2016-2017 indoor season, Harris continued his upward trend by winning two runner-up titles at the Bison Opener, long and triple jump titles at the Bucknell Tri-Meet, and triple jump at the Gulden Invitational and the YSU National Invite.

Based on his record, it’s no surprise the triple jump is a regular favorite for Harris to compete in.

“Sometimes, it is not always fun and it can definitely be taxing on the body, but hitting a good jump is so rewarding.  Along with that, it is a fascinating event to watch, and even more impressive to do,” he said.

Looking towards the last month of his sophomore season, his eyes remain set on qualifying for IC4A’s in both triple and long jump.

“As a team, we have our eyes set on top-three in the Patriot League, and we have put in the work to be able to obtain that goal.  We have good depth on our team, so if we can just continue and maintain our health, we should be in good shape to meet our team and individual goals,” Harris said.