The area is no stranger to Jim Harbaugh, who is no stranger to the NFL or the Chargers.

Harbaugh, a first-round pick by the Chicago Bears in 1987, played the final portion of his 15-year NFL career with the Bolts, starting 17 games for the franchise in the 1999 and 2000 seasons.

Harbaugh’s football career eventually led him to coaching. From his first head coaching position at the University of San Diego to Stanford, the San Francisco 49ers and most recently the University of Michigan, his alma mater, Harbaugh has orchestrated turnarounds and enjoyed tremendous success at every stop.

Still, a part of him always remained with the Bolts.

Since Harbaugh was hired in late January, he has worked hard to create a winning culture that aligns with his own personal standards every day.

Harbaugh didn’t mind getting his hands dirty along the way.

“I love working. I love working and having something to work on,” Harbaugh said. “I sit at my desk and hope someone brings me something to work on.

“To be able to do this in an environment like this with such spectacular people is inspiring. It really is,” Harbaugh continued. “So much to do, so much to learn. I feel like I’m on my feet all day. I have things to do.

He later added: “I dare say, I’m having fun.”

Harbaugh’s impact on the Chargers extends beyond the football field.

There is an enthusiasm surrounding the organization that is felt not only in Los Angeles but throughout the national soccer community.

You can feel it when you drive north off the 405 freeway and pass a billboard with Harbaugh’s face on it.

You see it when NFL analysts on the radio and TV talk about Harbaugh’s return to the NFL.

Chargers owner and chairman Dean Spanos feels it too.

“This would be an understatement, but I haven’t been this excited in a long time,” Spanos said. “I see it in the community, I see it in the organization, from our staff to our players to our coaches. It’s exciting.

“I think Jim’s presence has brought a sense of awareness to our team … and I think the fans are so excited about that,” Spanos added. “You see it everywhere you go.”