Tweet

By Tyler Vaughn, 01/03/19, 12:00PM

---

OKLAHOMA CITY – Energy FC defender Atiba Harris has signed a new, multi-year contract, Head Coach Steve Cooke announced today. After a successful first season with Energy FC, Harris has chosen to plant roots in Oklahoma City for the foreseeable future.

“We love it here,” Harris said. From the get-go, I felt comfortable and happy. That’s the most important thing. I’m happy and my family is happy. Everyone in Oklahoma City is really open, friendly and welcoming. I think the decision to stay here was the right one.”

Harris, a 12-year MLS veteran, played 276 matches in the U.S.’s top division, most recently with FC Dallas, where he made 85 appearances and scored five goals. He also has MLS experience with Real Salt Lake, Chivas USA, Vancouver Whitecaps, Colorado Rapids and San Jose Earthquakes.

In addition to his vast MLS experience, Harris is the captain of the Saint Kitts and Nevis national team, scoring 10 goals and earning 40 caps for his native country. He is also currently a nominee for Concacaf’s male defender of the year.

Energy FC signed Harris in June of 2018, and the defender went on to make 14 appearances and help keep five clean sheets.

“Everybody in the club knows that when he came into our program last season, he really made a big difference,” said Cooke. “Not only as a player but off the field as well. I think he’s a really great human being as well as a mentor to many of the younger players.”

Energy FC begin the 2019 season on the road against expansion club El Paso Locomotive FC Saturday, March 9. The first home match is against Las Vegas Lights FC Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Taft Stadium.