Asheville Christian Academy announces new head football coach

Rusty Bradley to take over Lions program

The Valley Echo
February 25, 2022

Rusty Bradley has been announced as the new head coach of ACA football. Bradley, who will be introduced to his team March 1, is the second head coach in the program’s history. Photo courtesy of ACA Athletics

A new head coach will lead the football program at Asheville Christian Academy, the school announced, Feb. 25.

Rusty Bradley, a two-time state champion in his tenure at Christian Academy of Knoxville, will be introduced to his new team, Tuesday, March 1.

“His coaching accolades are many, but his leadership of young men in a highly relational and mission minded way is just as important to note,” ACA Director of Athletics Joe Johnson said in the announcement. “He has a passion for all aspects of his players lives on and off the football field.  Coach Bradley will also serve the Asheville Christian community as the Assistant Director of Athletics. “

Bradley’s football experience began at the collegiate level with assignments at Indiana University, University of Colorado, University of Illinois and Louisiana Tech. He has coached 14 all-state quarterbacks, multiple all-state and collegiate level players at various positions, as well as two all-Americans.

Bradley will fill the role left vacant by the retirement of Rick Spurling, who coached ACA student-athletes on the Asheville Saints homeschool team that evolved to become the Lions after the 2019 season.