The Brookland-Cayce football team found itself in unfamiliar territory this offseason.

For the first time in 15 years, the team searched for a new head coach after the school district declined to renew all-time winningest coach Rusty Charpia’s contract.

Following an extensive search, the school settled on former Camden offensive coordinator Louis Clyburn. He brings with him decades of experience coaching in high school and college. He used those connections to build out his staff, which also consists of veteran high school, college and even professional coaches.

 ”We’re really excited about the staff’s experience,” Clyburn said. “ My first order of business was getting to know the players, developing a relationship and hiring some assistant coaches that I know know the standards that I want to implement.”

Clyburn does not feel he has to build the Bearcat program from the ground up. He thanked Charpia for laying a solid foundation.

“ It’s not like the program was in the ditch,” Clyburn said. “They’re good football players, a good football team.”

The core principles of Clyburn’s coaching style revolve around high standards. He wants his players to aim for the best on the field, in the classroom and in life.

Those expectations also fall on himself and his coaching staff. Clyburn believes if his staff gives their all in teaching the kids, the players will return the favor.

 ”If you have student-athletes that are lazy in the classroom, that don’t pay attention, and then they’re the exact same way in football practice, then guess what? You don’t win football games,” Clyburn said. “I hire people that have those same beliefs and same standards that we’re growing young men to be successful. If we grow them that way, to be successful in the classroom, out on the streets, then they will be successful on the football field.”

Offense

Brookland-Cayce has a mix of new and returning talent. The team looks to lean on its depth at certain positions and move guys around on offense and defense.

Tyree Johnson, Bennett Plane, Mekhi Pringle and Campbell Parsons will be the team’s top pass catchers in 2025. Clyburn is excited about their potential as an athletic group of players.

Protecting the front lines are linemen Jordan Browning, Andrew Coggins, Franklin Lykes, DeAndre Carmichael and Ari Jones. Clyburn’s son, Max Clyburn, will play tight end and be utilized as a blocker and receiver.

Avery King will take over the lead running back duties in his first season of varsity football.

Andrew Frick is the team’s starting quarterback. The sophomore transferred in from Heathwood Hall.

Defense

Just like the offense, the Bearcats’ defense is also a mix of old and younger players.

At defensive back, the team will rely on its receivers to play both sides of the ball. Some will spend more time on offense, while others focus primarily on defense. Barry Dixon is a player who will spend time on both sides of the ball but focus mostly on defense.

Clyburn’s other son, Jones Clyburn, will be one of the team’s primary linebackers. He has the skills and keys to be a leader on defense, Clyburn said. He will line up alongside Evan Simmons.

Jabari Corbett, Davion McGill-Boykin and Ja’Marion Griffin will man the defensive front.

2025 Brookland-Cayce Schedule

Week 0 - BYE

Week 1 - vs. River Bluff - Aug. 29

Week 2 - at White Knoll - Sept. 5

Week 3 - vs. May River - Sept. 12

Week 4 - at South Aiken* - Sept. 19

Week 5 - vs. Midland Valley* - Sept. 26

Week 6 - vs. Gray Collegiate* - Oct. 3

Week 7 - at Aiken* - Oct. 9

Week 8 - at Gilbert* - Oct. 1

Week 9 - vs. North Augusta* - Oct. 24

Week 10 - at Airport* - Oct. 30

Note: (*) indicates a game against a region opponent