Javascript Menu by Deluxe-Menu.com

SKNBuzz Radio - Strictly Local Music Toon Center
My Account | Contact Us  

Our Partner For Official online store of the Phoenix Suns Jerseys

 Home  >  Headlines  >  SPORTS
Posted: Wednesday 29 May, 2013 at 2:24 PM

Local football hero keeps Federation’s Flag flying in the US

Atiba Harris
By: Loshaun Dixon, SKNVibes.com

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WHILE most young people would have some degree of difficulty in deciding what they want to do for a living, it was not the same with Atiba Harris; arguably the most prolific and highest paid contracted footballer from St. Kitts and Nevis.

     

    From a very early stage in his life, Harris knew what he wanted to be...a footballer.

    Born to Sonia Williams and Baza Harris, the 28-year-old hails from Parray’s Village in St. Peter’s and had spent his pre-school years at the Salvation Army Pre-school before moving on to Peter's Primary School, now known as Deane Glasford Primary School. His secondary education started at the Basseterre Junior High School, where he spent two years, and completed it at the Basseterre High School.

    In an exclusive interview with SKNVibes, Harris explained how he got into the sport of football.

    “I was born into a sporting family and lived right next to the field. So I've been playing football since I was a baby. My favourite memories growing up were playing with my brother Kareem ‘Cobz’ Harris, my cousins Kirki, Kimba, Bumbo, Deuce, Jason, Marlon, Troy, Aiden, Nut, Orson, Pabo. There are lots more but too many to mention...those were fun days.”

    He also spoke about some of the individuals whom he admired.

    “I grew up watching a lot of the local guys and admired guys like Ras Coli, Nut, Shakes, Kayamba, Dico, Pepe and Yellowman. I would also like to thank all the coaches who helped me develop, but special thanks to  Lenny Lake, Lenny Taylor, Pete and the late Star for really pushing me to the limit.”

    Harris also gave a rundown of some of the teams that he represented.
     
    “In St. Kitts, I've only represented my hometown team, St. Peter's, which will always be close to my heart. I signed my first professional contract in 2003 with Cadiz in Spain. Then after a short stint back home and in St. Croix I signed with Major League Soccer (MLS) teams and have played for Real Salt Lake, CD Chivas USA, FC Dallas, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and now Colorado Rapids.”

    He also commented on the state of football in St. Kitts.

    “I think business personal need to invest more in football in St. Kitts, because this is by far the most popular sport and everybody loves it. The talent is there but businesses need to invest more and the people in charge of the clubs need to be dedicated and develop the talent. 

    “Players also need to do their part and find ways to improve their game and make sacrifices. The national system is a little behind as well. We need to play more games as at all national levels. With more games, comes more confidence, more exposure. We're not in a position to pick and choose our opponents, so playing against anyone should be welcomed.

    “I would also like to see the facilities developed so we can host professional teams for pre-season training etc. and get our players involved.”

    Harris also disclosed that he has some plans to help younger footballers in the Federation

    “There are a few things that I'm planning on doing to help the younger generation that I prefer to keep close to my heart at this moment. But one thing I'm big on is education. Education is key and people in SKB need to have a mind of their own and be able to make positive decisions.”

    In 2006 Harris became the first player from St. Kitts and Nevis to sign for MLS when he joined Real Salt Lake for the 2006 season. He has scored four goals and added one assist in 22 regular season appearances for the Utah-based club.

    So far, for this season, Harris has scored two goals for his new club, with the latest being Saturday, last.
Copyright © 2024 SKNVibes, Inc. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy   Terms of Service