James Harris looks on during Washington’s Heroes Night Football game last fall versus the Clear Creek Amana Clippers. Photo by Susan Harshman/Washington Demon Football.

A Washington alum is assuming a major role on the Demon football coaching staff this season. Washington head football coach Garrison Carter has promoted 2002 Demon graduate James Harris from strength and conditioning coordinator to defensive coordinator, replacing Dave Hoffman who retired from the district. Harris spoke with KCII Sports about the chance to lead the Demon defense and his thought on the personnel he has this season.

Harris says he is thrilled with the opportunity to coach for his alma mater’s football team, but says Hoffman’s shoe’s will be hard to fill. Harris says he’s learned a lot about defensive schemes from Hoffman and his former high school defensive coordinator, Mike Patrick. Harris adds the team’s three primary objectives will be to stop the run, swarm to the ball, and force turnovers.

A notable defensive returner for Washington is junior Jaivonn Willis, whose four interceptions led Class 3A District 5 last season. Junior Tanner Murphy, the team’s top tackler last season, is back to lead Washington’s linebacker group. Murphy recorded 64.5 total tackles as a sophomore, 39 solo. He also led the Demon defense with four sacks. Washington’s defense allowed 19.8 points per game.

The 2016 Washington Demon football season kicks off August 26, traveling to Albia for a non-conference tilt versus the Blue Demons. Listen to an interview with Harris this week on the KCII Friday Night Football Roundtable, debutting Friday at 6 p.m. on KCII.