Charlotte 49ers redshirt senior defensive end Tyriq Harris is one of nine semifinalists for the Wuerffel Trophy, college football's premier award for community service. This honor is presented annually to the Football Bowl Subdivision player who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement.
The other semifinalists are Shai Werts, Georgia Southern University, senior, quarterback; Michael Saffell, University of California, senior, offensive line; Luke Fortner, University of Kentucky, senior, offensive line; Brady White, University of Memphis, senior, quarterback; Mac Brown, University of Mississippi, senior, punter; Teton Saltes, University of New Mexico, senior, offensive line; Sam Ehlinger, University of Texas, senior, quarterback; and Mike Caliendo, Western Michigan University, senior, offensive line.
"It takes a gifted, confident young person to be a servant-leader and that's how Tyriq leads every single day," said head football coach Will Healy. "There is no job too big or too small for him. He lives to lift up others including his teammates and coaches. As long as I coach, I will use Tyriq as an example of what service and leadership should look like."
A three-time team captain, Harris was named to the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List in 2019 and 2020. He has volunteered at special events for numerous organizations, including the YMCA Miracle League All-Star Game, the Tim Tebow Night to Shine, Dream on 3 visits to campus and the Harrisburg (N.C.) 4th of July Parade.
An officer on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), he has received the SAAC's "Mr. 49er" award recognizing involvement and engagement for three straight years. He also has volunteered at Weddington Hills Elementary, Kings Kitchen, YMCA Healthy Kids Day and Elevation EKidz and visited Devonshire Elementary School. He has worked at on-campus blood drives and dance marathons and has been involved with the #SAACCares holiday drive and distribution to Project 658.
"Tyriq is one of the best people that I have ever met," said Chris Everett, Charlotte's director of student-athlete development. "He truly embodies everything we want to see grow in all of our student-athletes. He has had a tremendous impact on others in the community and a positive influence on so many young people, in particular. Tyriq is usually the first one at these events and can be found communicating with any and everyone. When he is at an event, the energy goes up. It naturally flows from him."
Harris is one of three remaining candidates for both the Wuerffel Trophy and the Campbell Trophy, joining Memphis quarterback Brady White and Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger.
Named after 1996 Heisman Trophy winning quarterback from the University of Florida, Danny Wuerffel, the Wuerffel Trophy exists to honor college football players who serve others, celebrate their positive impact on society, and inspire greater service in the world. The award has honored more than 1,300 nominees since its inception in 2005.
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