Fresno State Athletics
Under the Helmet With Alan Harper
9/28/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 28, 2001
When senior defensive tackle Alan Harper isn't terrorizing opposing offenses, he can be seen cruising in his 1987 Ford Mustang. His "baby," as he calls it, is Harper's prized possession. The loud sound system and the power and speed his Mustang has reflects the kind of person Harper is as a football player and a person. This wasn't always the case, however.
Last December when he bought his pride and joy it was bright pink with modest sounds. Harper drove the streets of Fresno with a car that was more suited for an 80's teen movie than a college football player. Needless to say, he heard the criticism from his friends and especially from his teammates.
"It got frustrating explaining to everybody that I got the car like that," said Harper. He heard the laughter and endured the teasing. But a few modifications later and the laughter turned to envy. "I painted it black, put flo-masters for more speed and installed two 12-inch speakers," describes Harper.
Complete with chrome rims and dual exhaust pipes, Harper can be seen rolling to the sounds of 2Pac and Jay-Z. And as for Harper's friends that ask for rides now, he only has one piece of advice: "Make sure you lean your head against the seat or you're going to get whiplash."
