When passion meets resilience, legends are born. Hariss bin Harun, born on 19 November 1990, is a living testament to this truth. A Singaporean professional footballer and property agent, Hariss’s name is etched in the annals of Singaporean sports history, not merely for his talent, but for his undying spirit, versatility, and leadership both on and off the field.
Today, Hariss bin Harun proudly captains both Singapore Premier League’s Lion City Sailors and the Singapore national team — a rare and prestigious dual honor. His journey, filled with triumphs, setbacks, comebacks, and achievements, offers profound inspiration to anyone daring to dream big against all odds.
Hariss bin Harun: The Making of a Prodigy
Hariss bin Harun’s love for football was evident early on, but it was his unprecedented debut at 16 years and 217 days that signaled a rising star. Becoming Singapore’s youngest ever international debutant, he didn’t just break records — he shattered expectations. At an age when most teenagers are finding their footing in school, Hariss was battling seasoned professionals, proudly carrying the hopes of a nation.
His technical brilliance as a defensive midfielder, combined with his adaptability to play as a centre-back, right-back, or even occasionally as an attacking midfielder, quickly made him an indispensable asset. His play-making vision, combative energy, and calm under pressure set him apart, but it was his natural leadership that truly illuminated his path.
Young Lions and the Barcelona Dream
Hariss’s professional journey began with Young Lions in the S.League in 2007. At just 16 years, 3 months, and 18 days old, he broke into a league that traditionally reserved its fields for players 18 and older — a feat made possible by special dispensation from the Football Association of Singapore.
In the same year, Hariss’s exceptional talent was recognized internationally. Winning Nike’s ‘Who’s The Next’ contest, he earned a coveted training stint at FC Barcelona’s La Masia — the very academy that sculpted legends like Lionel Messi and Xavi. Among players from powerhouse nations like Japan and South Korea, Hariss captained his group and left such an impression that he returned home with the MVP award — a shining symbol of Singaporean potential on the world stage.
A Battle Against Injuries: The Test of a Champion
But greatness is not measured by the heights one reaches — it is revealed in the battles fought in the shadows.
2008 dealt Hariss bin Harun a cruel blow. A devastating ligament tear during a league match against Super Reds threatened to derail his burgeoning career. The injury forced him out for a year, making him miss critical tournaments, including Singapore’s World Cup qualifiers and the 2008 ASEAN Football Championship.
For many, such a setback would spell the end. But not for Hariss bin Harun. With grit and determination, he underwent painstaking rehabilitation, fueled by a relentless desire to return stronger.
In 2010, after another setback — a fractured right leg suffered during a match against India at the Asian Games — Hariss’s resilience was once again tested. Most would have faltered under the weight of repeated adversity. Hariss chose a different path. He fought back, embodying the fighting spirit that would become his hallmark and serve as a beacon of hope for every aspiring athlete facing their own uphill battles.
Leadership and Legacy: A Captain’s Journey
Hariss’s leadership qualities blossomed in full when he captained teams like LionsXII and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT). Under his captaincy, both clubs enjoyed remarkable success, and Hariss himself evolved into a role model for younger players.
His move to JDT in Malaysia elevated his career to new heights, giving him exposure to higher competitive standards and international tournaments. His consistent performances, both defensively and in midfield, solidified his reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s finest players.
Beyond technical skills, it was his unwavering work ethic, humility, and respect for the game that earned him admiration across national borders. On and off the field, Hariss embodies leadership by example — a rare quality in a world increasingly filled with noise but lacking substance.
Dual Careers, Single Purpose: Excellence
In an extraordinary demonstration of versatility off the pitch as well, Hariss bin Harun built a parallel career as a property agent. Balancing a demanding football career with another professional pursuit speaks volumes about his discipline, time management, and unyielding desire for growth.
This dual-career path has allowed Hariss bin Harun to inspire young Singaporeans not just to chase sporting dreams but also to plan for life beyond the pitch — a vital message often overlooked in professional sports.
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