Sherrone Moore is ‘proud’ of Jim Harbaugh for earning the Presidential Medal of Freedom: “It’s Great for Everyone, But It’s Great for Michigan Wolverine.”
In a moment that reverberated throughout the collegiate football world, Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh was awarded the renowned Presidential Medal of Freedom, a historic honor that recognizes remarkable achievements to American culture. The honor recognizes not only Harbaugh’s outstanding coaching career, but also his steadfast dedication to quality, leadership, and ethics both on and off the field.
Among the first to respond was Michigan’s newly appointed head coach, Sherrone Moore, who expressed his admiration for his predecessor and mentor.
“I’m incredibly proud of Coach Harbaugh,” Moore remarked. “This recognition is great for everybody who has followed his journey, but it’s especially great for the Michigan Wolverine family.”
Sherrone Moore, who took over after Harbaugh’s departure to the NFL, recognized Harbaugh’s significant impact on the university and its football team.
“When you consider what he’s accomplished — not just the victories, championships, or rivalries — you consider the culture he established and the values he instilled.” He inspired us to think that anything is possible when you lead with passion and purpose.
Jim Harbaugh’s time at Michigan was nothing short of revolutionary. Under his leadership, the Wolverines regained national prominence, recovering The Game versus Ohio State, winning many Big Ten Championships, and winning the 2023 College Football Playoff National Title. Beyond on-field success, Harbaugh was noted for fostering in his players a sense of toughness, unity, and academic accountability — something Moore believes will always be part of Michigan’s DNA.
“He showed us how to develop young men as leaders, not simply sportsmen. He cared about the entire person. That is why this award makes perfect sense. “His contributions extend far beyond the gridiron,” Moore continued.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States’ highest civilian award. The fact that a college football coach has received such an honor demonstrates Harbaugh’s far-reaching impact in the public eye. He has been an outspoken supporter of student-athlete rights, community engagement, and educational reform, leveraging his platform to inspire debate and effect real change.
Moore, who worked closely with Harbaugh as offensive coordinator and associate head coach, believes his legacy will continue at Michigan.
“I feel a responsibility to build on the foundation that Coach Harbaugh laid.” His presence may still be felt in our program every day. This distinction only confirms what we’ve already known: he’s a once-in-a-generation leader.
As Moore leads the Wolverines into a new era, he emphasizes that Harbaugh’s recognition is a source of pride not only for Michigan, but for the whole football and academic community.
“This is a win for everyone.” It demonstrates that doing things the right way — with passion and purpose — creates a legacy that outlasts triumphs and trophies. Congratulations, Coach. “You have made Michigan and America proud.”
For Sherrone Moore and the Wolverines, the journey continues, built on the shoulders of giants such as Jim Harbaugh, whose dedication to character, competition, and country has become a national model.