North Marion’s Harward shines on and off the football field
Thomas Harward, 18, a senior linebacker, poses for a photo on the field at North Marion High School in Citra, Fla. on Monday, Nov. 29, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.
Thomas Harward, 18, a senior linebacker, poses for a photo on the field at North Marion High School in Citra, Fla. on Monday, Nov. 29, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.
“Tommy is a kid who is willing to do whatever it takes,” Carr said. “Whether it’s in the weight room, the classroom, or on the practice field, Tommy is one of the hardest working kids I’ve ever coached.”
Harwood was one of the stalwarts of the North Marion defense in 2021. A linebacker, Harward was a tackling machine for the Colts. He averaged 9.7 tackles per game, recorded 5.5 sacks and tallied two interceptions.
Carr shared his thoughts on Harwood’s best games of the 2021 season.
“The Eastside game was a good one for him,” Carr said. “He played really well against Clay, too.”
Harward looks back fondly on practices with his teammates and coaches. Those practices helped to make him a better player and teammate.
“I wanted to improve, get better,” he said. “Our coaches really helped me to do that.”
In addition to a stellar high school football career, Harward shines in the classroom as well. He currently carries a 4.0 grade point average.
When asked about his future after football, Harward plans to pursue a degree and career in physical therapy.
“I’d like to work in the physical therapy field after my football playing days are over,” he added.
This is an exciting time for Harward, who is entertaining offers from multiple college football programs. He currently holds offers from Methodist College, Ripon College, and Warner University. Warner, located in Lake Wales, is within driving distance of Citra.
“I’d like to stay close to home, if possible,” he said. “But I want to play college football at the highest level I possibly can, so I am still accepting offers.”
Harward gives credit to Coach Carr for the person he is today.
“Coach Carr was always there for me,” Harward said. “I could call or text him, and he was always there for me. I’m thankful for that.”
There is a lot of gratitude for his parents as well.
“My mom and dad are so supportive,” Harward said. “If I ever got down on myself, my dad would talk me up. He told me to have heart and the will to succeed.”
No matter which college program he chooses to play football for, Harward’s future looks bright.
Like Carr, the North Marion community will be watching with pride.
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