WINNIPEG – Football is a game of numbers. Each digit adds to the story, making up a moment in time, a piece of the past and a part of who the players are.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers running back Andrew Harris is synonymous with the number 33. When it’s not stitched to his shirt, it sits close to his heart dangling from a necklace. He chooses to constantly wear it in memory of a former teammate.
“The number 33 to me represents a guy who’s a warrior,” Harris said. “Everyday he brought a certain fire, a certain edge.”
Harris met Aaron Niedergesaess while playing junior football in BC. The two were inseparable – even becoming dads within weeks of each other.
“It’s an indescribable bond we had,” Harris said. “We just understood each other in a weird way. We had great times.”
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To provide for his young family, Niedergesaess quit football. While driving to work on Sept. 30, 2008, the 21-year-old was killed in a car crash.
“I remember it to this day,” Harris said. “My coach coming up to tell me. I was angry because I didn’t get a chance to talk to him recently. I was devastated.”
Shortly after, Harris switched jerseys, dropping the number 20 he wore since high school to take Niedergesaess’ 33.
“I can feel him every game,” Harris said. “Part of why I play the way I am is based on the number I wear and the attitude it brings.”
A never quit approach the running back carried his entire path to the pros.
“He inspired me a lot to push on,” Harris said. “Part of that was with the number 33. I’m living on that legacy.”