Providence Grove coach takes Blue Comet reins

Mike Duprez

Randolph Hub

Asheboro last had a winning football season in 2016. Calvin Brown aims to change that.

Brown was named as head coach of the Blue Comets after a successful seven-year run at Providence Grove.

“It was a very tough decision, but I felt like it was the right timing,” Brown said. “I’m excited about the opportunity there. I feel like Asheboro is the place that has a lot of potential. ... I feel like there is unbelievable potential. I want to be a part of that.”

Brown replaces Blake Brewer, who was 2-25 in three seasons. Brewer, a former Asheboro quarterback, resigned after the 2022 season during which the Blue Comets went 1-9.

Asheboro’s struggles predated Brewer, who was a popular hire but couldn't get anything untracked at his alma mater. The Blue Comets’ last winning season was in 2016 when they were 9-4 under then-coach Owen George. Kevin Gillespie succeeded George. Gillespie won a state championship at Grimsley but wasn't able to win at Asheboro.

Despite the dearth of wins lately, Brown is optimistic that will change though he stresses it won't happen overnight.

“It’s going to take a commitment from a lot of people,” Brown said. “A football coach can't to it by himself. ... Everybody has to be on board and I feel like we have that.”

Brown, who will teach physical education, begins his new job in January. Then the work begins.

“We'll start in the weight room,” Brown said. “Getting kids stronger. That's going to be the focus of it. And then the discipline, getting the kids to be a disciplined football team. ... We know that it is a long process.”

Starting in January gives more time for Brown to install his offense and defense. He also gets spring practice with his new team. Brown said he will bring several members of his Providence Grove staff next fall.

Brown was 42-34 in his seven seasons at Providence Grove. The Patriots were 4-7 the first two years. But they won eight games in each of the last three full seasons.

“I loved my time at Providence Grove,” Brown said. “It was home for us. It was a difficult decision, but I'm excited about Asheboro and that opportunity. The administration, they have the same vision and goal that I do for a football program.”