Brian Newberry, the current head coach of the Navy Midshipmen football team, has deep roots in Oklahoma, and his journey into coaching reflects the influence of his early experiences growing up in the state. Newberry, a native of Moore, Oklahoma, spent his formative years closely following Oklahoma University (OU) football, a program that would play a significant role in shaping his love for the game. While he has since dedicated his career to coaching, his connection to OU remains strong, and he will soon be leading Navy against his hometown team in the Armed Forces Bowl.
Newberry’s early exposure to football came from his family and the football culture in Oklahoma. Growing up in Moore, a suburb of Oklahoma City, he was surrounded by passionate Sooner fans. His father, a longtime football fan, introduced him to the sport, and Newberry quickly became captivated by the game. As a boy, he often attended OU games, watching the Sooners dominate the college football scene. The experience instilled in him a love for the sport and an appreciation for the traditions of Oklahoma football. These experiences were pivotal in shaping his eventual decision to pursue football at a higher level.
Despite his love for OU football, Newberry’s own athletic career took him down a different path. After high school, he went on to play football at the University of Tulsa, where he became a standout defensive player. His time at Tulsa allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the game, and after graduating, he embarked on a career in coaching. Newberry’s coaching journey has taken him across various programs, but he has always kept his roots in Oklahoma close to his heart.
Before becoming Navy’s head coach in 2023, Newberry spent several years coaching in the collegiate ranks, including stints at schools like Vanderbilt and Memphis. His success as a defensive coordinator at both schools earned him a reputation as a rising star in the coaching world. When the opportunity to lead Navy presented itself, Newberry was ready to take on the challenge. At Navy, he has built a team known for its discipline and tough, physical style of play — values that resonate deeply with the traditions of Oklahoma football.
Even as he prepares to coach against his beloved Sooners in the Armed Forces Bowl, Newberry remains a devoted fan of OU. “I still root for the Sooners,” he admitted in an interview. Despite his loyalty to his current team, Newberry has a deep respect for his roots, and he understands the significance of facing his hometown team in such a high-profile game. For him, the matchup represents a unique opportunity to compete at the highest level while honoring the state that shaped him.
In conclusion, Brian Newberry’s journey from an Oklahoma boy to the head coach of Navy is a testament to the powerful influence that football culture can have on young athletes. As he leads Navy into battle against OU in the Armed Forces Bowl, Newberry will no doubt be filled with a mix of pride for his roots and determination to lead his team to victory. His story is a reminder that no matter where life takes you, the love of the game and the ties to where you come from never truly fade.
