Story written by: Christopher Simmons @ CHSAANow.com
AURORA — Strasburg High School has powered its way through the 2025 season, combining physicality, discipline, and small-town pride to continue one of the most consistent football traditions in Colorado. Anchored by a dominant defense, a balanced offensive attack, and a tight-knit group of players who embody Strasburg's competitive spirit, the Indians have surged to an undefeated start and cemented their place among Colorado's 2A Elite.
For his leadership and the Indians' impressive success, head coach Brian Brown has been named CHSAA's Denver Broncos High School Tackle Coach of the Week.
Throughout the season, there will be a weekly Broncos Coach of the Week for flag and tackle and every nominee will be recognized on-field at a Broncos home game.
Interview with Strasburg head coach Brian Brown:
How would you describe your coaching philosophy, both on and off the field, and share any mentors or experiences that have most influenced your approach to leading this program?
My philosophy doesn't change on or off the field, it's all about desire, determination, and discipline. Those three words drive everything we do because they apply not just to football, but to life. I'm demanding but fair, and I coach with compassion for the game and the toll it takes on players physically and mentally. I learned preparation and detail from mentors like former Strasburg coaches Jeff Giger and Dave Dodge, and I was deeply influenced by my college coaches at Nebraska, Tom Osborne for his dignity and respect toward players, and Charlie McBride for teaching that if you're tough on someone, you better be ready to pick them up the next play. That balance defines how I lead.
You're an alum of the University of Nebraska and played defensive line there in the late '80s and early '90s. How did that experience shape your understanding of the game and your approach to coaching today?
Playing at Nebraska taught me that success isn't just about being bigger, faster, or stronger, there's always someone with more of each. What separates players is technique. Coach McBride used to say I was one of the best technicians he'd coached, and that focus on fundamentals is something I bring to Strasburg every day. The game has changed since my college days, but great technique, discipline, and attention to detail will always win football games and prepare kids for life.
Since taking over as head coach in 2019, how has your coaching staff evolved, and what qualities do you look for in assistants to strengthen the identity and culture of the program?
I've been fortunate to keep a consistent staff since I started, and that continuity has been invaluable. Everyone understands the vision, the work ethic, and the time commitment it takes to keep this program strong. This year we added two young alumni, AJ Hemphill and Mitch Martin, both former college players who've injected new energy and passion into practices. They bring fresh ideas and connect well with our players, helping bridge the tradition of Strasburg football with the modern game.
Strasburg is known for its strong sense of community pride and tradition. What makes coaching here special for you personally, and how do you see that community energy reflected in your players on Friday nights?
Strasburg reminds me of my small-town roots in Nebraska, where everyone rallies around the school and its kids. There's something special about small-town football, it's personal, it's passionate, and it's what brings people together. The stands are full, the energy is high, and the community genuinely cares. That connection drives our players to give everything they have each Friday night because they know they're playing for more than just themselves, they're playing for the town.
Coming off a 2A State Quarterfinals appearance last season and a run to the state championship game the year before, your program has shown remarkable consistency, now sitting at 8-0 this fall. What do you feel has fueled that sustained success, and how do you keep the group focused and hungry heading into the postseason?
It starts with our seniors, a tight-knit, hungry group that's been building toward this moment for four years. Last year's quarterfinal loss stuck with them, and they've used it as motivation ever since. From summer workouts in June to team camp in July, they've shown relentless drive and focus. We may have a small roster, but these kids play with heart, grit, and belief in each other. That hunger and brotherhood have been the backbone of our success.
Every successful program has players who set the tone. Who are some of the vocal leaders or "glue guys" that have defined your locker room this year and which players have surprised you most with their growth?
Our senior class as a whole has been outstanding, but a few guys really set the tone. Running back and defensive back Cade Hemphill embodies toughness, even playing through injury without hesitation. Linebacker Jorge Parra brings relentless intensity and sets the standard for our defense. Junior quarterback Brody Hopwood has grown tremendously, mastering a more complex offense and leading with poise. Guys like Juan Fernandez and Danny Moreno up front have also stepped up big, giving this team its identity and edge.
Your squad has been outstanding, allowing just 10.5 points per game on defense while averaging nearly 40 on offense. What drives that kind of balance, and how do you ensure both sides of the ball keep each other sharp in practice and in competition?
With a small roster, most of our players go both ways, which makes practice ultra-competitive. Everyone knows their role matters, even the scout team guys who might not play on Friday but push our starters every day. That unity and shared purpose make us dangerous. There's no divide between seniors and freshmen; it's one team with one goal. When we play complete football – offense, defense, and special teams – we're at our best.
That thrilling win over league rival Kent Denver was one of the season's marquee moments. What did that performance tell you about your team's toughness and ability to respond in pressure situations?
That game showed me this team's heart. Two unbeaten teams, a hostile road crowd, all the pressure you could imagine, and our kids never flinched. After a slow start, they locked in, played with composure, and kept improving every snap. They didn't get caught up in the moment, they just competed like warriors. That resilience and confidence in each other is what championship-caliber football looks like.
Looking ahead, what's your long-term vision for Strasburg football, whether it's in player development, program sustainability, or continuing to build a culture that extends beyond wins and losses?
My goal is to keep building on the foundation laid before me and ensure our core values carry forward. In a small town, player development and roster building go hand in hand, we need kids coming up through the program who want to be part of something bigger than themselves. We want parents and players to know we're not just developing football players, but great young men, future husbands, fathers, and leaders. That's the true legacy I hope to leave behind.
