Playing in his honor: Shorewood schools host "Hoops For Harris" to honor late principal

SHOREWOOD (WITI) -- Shorewood schools are playing for a high school principal who suddenly died in October -- it's called "Hoops For Harris."

Mark Harris died suddenly in October, he was only 40-years-old. Harris was the principal of Shorewood Intermediate School, but as FOX6 News was told Friday night, his presence was felt throughout the entire district.

In the wake of a tragedy, not a lot makes sense -- but tonight, on court it does.

"He was always smiling, always around, loved basketball," said senior, Alexis Beverly.

And the same goes on the food court.

"Very grateful I got to spend a lot of time with him," said Beverly.

Beverly is on point. A senior serving, while remembering Mark Harris.

"He was always in the hallways, making his way around. He attended, and brought his family to most of the games -- football, basketball and any other sport event he could get to," said Beverly.

Beverly spoke about the man when Shorewood High School hosted a memorial after his death.

"He was there, he motivated you and he pushed you regardless," said Beverly.

Friday night, money made from the concessions, all the hot dogs, and popcorn is going to Mr. Harris' family.

"Anything we can do to help and let them know how much we really care for Mr. Harris," said Athletic Director, LeVar Ridgeway.

A fundraiser organized by both New Berlin and Shorewood student councils is giving t-shirt sales to the family as well.

"Yeah he was a basketball fan, obviously he played at Marquette and last year I remember being at basketball games and he was always here with his kids," said Beverly.

And that's why amid such a confounding loss, tonight makes so much sense.

"He wasn't an official coach, but ask any student around he definitely was a coach to them," said Ridgeway.

Even though Mark Harris' life was cut short, he took his best shot at it -- nothing but net.

Related Links:

"Utter disbelief:" Beloved educator in Shorewood School District dies unexpectedly
"He's gonna be irreplaceable:" Hundreds mourn the loss of beloved educator, Mark Harris
Saying goodbye: Former principal Mark Harris is laid to rest