By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Crenshaw Christian Academy (CCA) football players, parents, faculty and fans gathered Tuesday night at an informal meet and greet session to welcome the Cougars’ new head football coach and athletic director Brandon Burleson to the CCA family. 

Burleson joins CCA faculty after serving as the defensive coordinator for the McKenzie High School Tigers. Prior to his term with the McKenzie Tigers staff, Burleson served as the cirector of football operations and defensive line coach at W.S. Neal High School in Brewton, as well as the defensive coordinator at Sparta Academy. 

According to Burleson, these experiences allowed him to develop his coaching skills and nurture a deep understanding of the game. Burleson said he is excited to take on this new challenge and continue the winning tradition at CCA, stating that it is an honor to have been asked to contribute to this long-standing tradition of success. 

“I have watched this program from afar throughout the years, having grown up playing against them and coaching against them,” Burleson said. “Taking over a program that is accustomed to winning, a program with deep and positive traditions is not a task to be taken lightly. I definitely respect the position and am devoted to what it’s going to take to see continued success here. I want to make sure the players know we have to continue to work hard, and give it their all like they’ve done in the past, while adding on more skills and trying more approaches.”

Born and raised in Georgiana, Burleson graduated from Sparta Academy in 2004 and Burleson grew up in an environment that fostered both academic and athletic excellence. As the son of a coach, he was instilled with a deep appreciation for competition and the pursuit of personal growth in all aspects of life. 

Burleson earned his degree from Auburn University and initially embarked on a career path in hospitality tourism and management.  Although he enjoyed a successful career in the culinary arts, his love for working with students and the game of football drew him back to the playing field. 

According to the CCA administration, Burleson’s diverse experiences have equipped him with valuable insights and skills that will allow him to have a positive impact on the football program and the entire school. 

“CCA is excited to welcome Coach Burleson as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach,” said Headmaster Becky Baggett. “He has a vision for all CCA sports. He has a very strong work-ethic and positive demeanor. He shares our Christian values and will be an asset to our athletic program.”

Burleson’s hire marks an exciting chapter for the Cougars football team and the athletic program as a whole and CCA is eagerly looking forward to Coach Brandon Burleson’s leadership. 

“We may be small in numbers right now, but that is ok,” Burleson said. “We just have to get out there and get after it. So, we are going to continue the tradition of hard work and discipline and make sure we are more disciplined than everyone else and set the bar. I want the Cougars to be the team that no one wants to play. I am excited to start the school year and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the CCA family.”