Ben Harris, one of Moreton Bay United’s foundation players, said it was a “tough decision” to leave and sign for Easts.
He started in 2013 with our first Under 15 team - premiers with 18 wins in 20 games - and progressed through the juniors to seniors and captained our men’s side.
Since his senior debut in 2017, Ben made 74 senior NPL appearances for Jets, scoring three times and was part of our FFA Cup squad which reached the national Round of 16.
“It (the move) all happened very quickly,” said Ben, “I received many wonderful messages from those around the club which I am really grateful for.
“I’ve been part of the Moreton Bay United family and community for nine years now, since the beginning of the club.
“Easts is a great club with values similar to MBU so I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Ben said he was “very fortunate to have had some wonderful experiences playing for Moreton Bay United” and included among his highlights:
- Playing in the Manchester United Cup in NSW with Jets Under 15s
- Being involved in the 2017 FFA Cup run to the National Round of 16
- Being named Jets’ vice captain in 2019/20 and wearing the captain's armband, on occasions, when Alex Janovsky was not available.
- Scoring (with a right-foot shot) against Gold Coast Knights last year.
“That was a pretty special goal for me and game at a tough time returning from injury,” said Ben, “the support from the boys was fantastic”.
Off the pitch, Ben's highlights included: “The comradely and mateship within the Moreton Bay United team has always stood out," said Ben
“Particulars that come to mind are away trips up north, Thai dinner feeds after training and end of season getaways. I’ve always made friends for life at the club. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being involved with the junior teams, whether this has been coaching the next generation or joining junior teams' training during the week.” That first season was special for the club and Ben in the Under 15s under coach Dave Harris.
“An important thing for a football team and something Moreton Bay United has always had, is a fantastic culture. In my time each senior and junior coach brought something to add to this.
“I like to think being one of the longest serving players I’ve been heavily involved in creating this and also understanding what it is about. “While it took a lot of hard work, going from MBU junior to senior was a seamless transition because of the player development pathway.
"I hope the club continues to promote from within.” Fast forwarding a couple of months and July 30 could be an emotional day when Ben and his new club Easts are due to visit Wolter Park.
“I’ve always pride myself on being professional with everything I do,” said Ben, “I think the Moreton Bay United fans have always respected that from me.
“I definitely intend to stick to that and I’ll be giving my all for Easts for what I’m sure is going to be a very tough game.
“I just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the club.
"I’ve always appreciated all the support and opportunities and I’ll always have fond memories to look back on.”