For Denbigh football coach Marcellus Harris III, the decision to run for the Newport News city council was an easy one to make.
“I have always been passionate about helping and serving others,” said Harris, who recently completed his eighth season as the Patriots’ football coach. “That is why I chose the professions that I currently have.” Along with his gridiron duties, Harris also serves Denbigh High as an academic counselor, and works as the youth minister at his church.
Football, family and public service run directly through the coach’s life, as well as his five siblings. Harris’ father, Rev. Dr. Marcellus Harris Jr., is the pastor of First Baptist Church Morrison in Newport News, and is himself a pillar of the Denbigh community – one that led his son to devote his life to a greater cause.
“My father, who is also my role model, has been my biggest inspiration,” added Harris, who will be running for the North District seat currently occupied by Rob Coleman. “He has pastored for 45 years, and also ran for office many years ago.”
Watching his father in action had a direct impact on the younger Harris.
“I witnessed how he cared for people and served as a voice for social injustices,” recalled Harris. “Working with families in my district and coaching young men has given me the opportunity to hear their concerns about the state of our community.”
The voices of the community are echoed in his platform, which is located on his campaign website atwww.marcellusb2harris.com. The seven initiatives, which focus on growth and mentoring include:
- Youth Development and Empowerment
- Youth Violence Initiatives
- Increase Parks and Recreational Participation
- Character Development through Mentorship Programs
- Jobs (Career Exploration and Employability Skills)
- Strengthening Family Dynamics and relations
- Positive Male Development and Empowerment
“I love Newport News and want to do all I can to help our citizens be heard and represent them.”
Harris has made a name for himself, outside of being the pastor’s son. Aside from his current work in secondary education and his church, he was a standout wide receiver at East Carolina, catching 95 passes for over 1,350 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Pirates from 1997-2000. Prior to his collegiate career, he was the primary passing target of a young quarterback named Michael Vick at Ferguson High.
Harris is also not a stranger to the campaign trail. Two years ago, he ran for a council seat, but was narrowly defeated by current Councilwoman Sharon Scott. His current opponent, the incumbent Coleman, has served on the council for four years, and is currently the vice-mayor of Newport News. Yet, the problems that cripple Newport News, including a murder rate that recently had the city ranked #25 among the top 30 murder capitals in the U.S., have led to a ground swelling of city residents, particularly in the North and East End sectors, calling for a change in the city’s leadership.
Whether the change will occur or not depends on Tuesday’s election results. The polls will be open from 6 AM to 7 PM in Newport News.
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