Northwood’s Joseph Harper has accomplished plenty on the football field. He’s been part of CIF-SS championship teams. He’s excelled at multiple positions, played through injury and earned All-County honors.
The senior believes he still has room for growth on and off the field.
That’s why he committed to Army and signed with the Black Knights on National Signing Day on Wednesday.
“I committed to Army because I knew it was a place where I could grow and develop as a man,” Harper said. “It’s an amazing institution where I know I will be surrounded by people who will make me a better football player, a better leader and better person.”
Harper, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound linebacker, said he will complete a two-year mission with the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints before beginning his journey with Army.
Religion plays a large role in Harper’s family.
His brother Adam, a former football standout at Northwood, is expected to return this summer from his mission in Australia. Harper said his brother aims to compete in collegiate athletics.
Former Northwood football coach J.C. Clarke, now an assistant, hopes Harper excels in football at Army. He is certain, however, what type of cadet Harper will be.
“I know he will an asset to the military and our country,” Clarke said. “(I) couldn’t be prouder.”
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