Sidelined: From FSU to Prison and the Return to the Game of Life

Maurice Smiley Harris’ story is one of a young man’s struggles to find direction in his life after being recruited by some of the nation’s top Division I NCAA football programs in the country. He eventually signed with and played for legendary Coach Bobby Bowden at FSU (Florida State University). A severe neck injury abruptly ended Maurice’s dream of one day becoming a professional athlete and entering the NFL draft became, a personal nightmare. Maurice started making terrible decisions, than shortly after graduating from FSU he made one that had him facing a felony crime and eventually sentenced to eight years in prison. His misguided choices profoundly changed his life but were used as a compass for future challenges after being released from prison. Spending years incarcerated led to painful experiences and many unforeseen setbacks for Maurice. His vociferous personality and redemptive spirit led him to a place of courageously taking steps to atone for his past mistakes. He is determined to not allow prior failings to dictate future outcomes. Maurice (Smiley) Harris is no longer SIDELINED.