Back in the Game

Back in the Game

52-year-old baseball player suits up for varsity team

At 52, Harry Muir is redefining what it means to be a varsity athlete, showing that a love for the game and a competitive spirit can bridge generations.

“Some of the guys on the team are the same age as my kids,” says the first-year Architectural Technology student and father of three. “I wasn’t sure if I could still compete, but I’m glad I did it.”

The London native was a Toronto Blue Jays minor-leaguer in the early ‘90s. After being released, he went on to win the French national championship in 1995. He has remained involved with the game ever since as a player, coach and most recently as the general manager of the Intercounty Baseball League’s newest team, the Chatham Barnstormers.

His years of professional experience have given him a unique perspective, not just on the game, but on life itself.

“Baseball has helped me interact with younger people, and I think I’ve learned as much from them as they’ve learned from me,” says Harry who is the team’s biggest cheerleader, doling out high-fives and shouting encouragement to his teammates.

Harry admits his return to school hasn’t been all fun and games though.

“I have 20 years of experience in construction, which helps me understand building components and materials, but the math is a struggle,” he says shortly after his first math test in over 30 years. “Managing my time between classes, baseball and family has been a challenge, but baseball has prepared me to handle challenges.”

For this former pro, baseball and education aren’t just about reliving the past—they’re about forging a new future. Balancing his roles as a student, player, father and mentor, he’s proving it’s never too late to return to the game—or to the classroom.