Coach Jason Harrison: A Legacy of Leadership, Mentorship, and Dedication
In the world of high school football, coaches are often seen as strategists, motivators, and disciplinarians. But for Jason Harrison, head football coach at Gunderson High School, his role transcends the gridiron. Known to many as “Coach Harry” or “Coach Rock,” Harrison has become a beacon of hope, inspiration, and guidance for his players, embodying the essence of what it means to be a coach, mentor, and leader.
A Player Turned Mentor
Coach Harrison’s journey in football began at Gunderson High School, where he excelled as a running back, earning recognition as the 11th best RB in the Class of 2001. His talent took him to UCLA on a full scholarship, but a devastating knee injury during his second year could have derailed his passion for the game. Instead, it fueled his resolve. After years of rehabilitation, Harrison continued his football journey, playing professionally overseas in Finland. In 2010, he transitioned to coaching, bringing his resilience and love for the game back to where it all started—his alma mater.
Building a Brotherhood at Gunderson
This past season, Harrison led Gunderson High School to a historic year, finishing 7-3 overall and 6-0 in the league. The team clinched its first West Valley League title in 23 years and earned a CCS playoff berth for the first time since 2016. These accomplishments, however, were not just about wins and losses. They were about transforming a group of young men into a brotherhood built on hard work, discipline, and mutual respect.
“Man, it’s a long time coming,” Harrison reflected after the team’s championship-clinching victory. “We trained so hard. Right after last season, we got in the weight room. There was no hesitation. It showed.”
Harrison’s calm demeanor and unshakable belief in his players helped turn Gunderson into a winning program, leaving it far better than he found it. His players credit him for their growth as athletes and individuals. Junior quarterback Andrew Fernandez expressed his gratitude:
“Thank you, Coach, for everything you’ve done for me. Without you, I wouldn’t have been the quarterback I am today. You taught me a lot over the years, and I know you’ll continue to teach a lot more in Arizona.”
Expanding His Impact with GSF
Harrison’s influence extends beyond Gunderson High School. He became involved with the GSF 7v7 club teams as the head coach for the DAWGS, where many of his Gunderson players participated. However, his dedication was not exclusive to his Grizzlies players. Harrison trained and mentored athletes from rival schools, helping them get bigger, faster, and stronger during the offseason.
Alf Joaquin, executive director of the GSF Senior All-Star Game, shared an anecdote about Harrison’s commitment to helping young athletes: “I remember a parent from a rival school telling me that Jason’s helping my son by introducing us to college coaches. Another example is when we select players for the 7v7 teams, Harrison does not care about having a star player. His goal is to help the players become standouts and stars.”
The DAWGS, composed primarily of young sophomores and freshmen, reached championship rounds simply by following Harrison’s leadership. That offseason team laid the groundwork for Gunderson’s league-title-winning season in 2024—a fitting culmination to Harrison’s tenure at his alma mater.
GSF All-Stars: A Final Celebration
Coach Harrison isn’t done yet. His 2024 GSF All-Star team is loaded with elite talent and poised for an unforgettable performance. The roster includes Kingston Keanaaina, a 3-star BYU signee at running back; Jonathan Crat of El Cerrito, a 3-star quarterback committed to Fresno State; and two of the WCAL’s best defenders, Jackson Cahoon from St. Francis (WCAL Linebacker of the Year) and Teddy Chung from Serra (headed to Harvard).
Alongside these standout players, Harrison’s 5-Star roster is filled with hidden gems and driven athletes eager to showcase their talent. His staff, composed not only of exceptional coaches but also close friends, has built a culture of excellence and camaraderie.
The Coach Players Trust and Respect
Harrison’s magnetic personality and steadfast principles have earned him the trust and respect of his players and peers. Coach Josh Visperas, Defensive Coordinator at Bellarmine Bells, a three-time GSF All-Star coach, and one of Harrison’s closest friends, shared:
“Coach Harrison’s personality is magnetic. He’s the type of coach players want to be around. When he is coaching his players, they are locked in and focused. They trust him and respect him. He stands on his morals when other coaches might fold. I’ve seen him bench starters in big games for discipline issues. He would rather teach a lesson and lose than win and let poor discipline slide.”
Coach Joel Cordero, Head Football Coach and Director of Football Operations at GetSportsFocus, also praised Harrison’s impact:
“It’s been a great privilege to have had Coach Harrison as a part of the GSF Family these last few years. The way he gets the most out of his players is a testament to his work ethic as a football coach and a mentor to these young men. I am grateful to have been able to work with him and develop a friendship with Jason.”
A New Chapter
As Harrison prepares to move to Arizona, he leaves behind a legacy of transformation, mentorship, and success. His leadership has impacted countless young athletes, instilling in them the values of hard work, perseverance, and self-belief. His departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter, but his influence will resonate far beyond Gunderson, GSF, and the players he coached.
Harrison’s message is clear: “Hard work pays off.” His journey from a standout player to a transformative coach is a testament to his character, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the people and communities he has served.
The GSF All-Star Game promises to be a celebration of all that Coach Harrison represents: excellence, unity, and the joy of football. It’s more than just a game—it’s a tribute to a coach who has given everything to his players and leaves a legacy that will inspire for generations to come.
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