Third Time's a Charm

Chris Brewer and the Bears walking out together.

The Brattleboro Bears boys soccer season has commenced, and so has Chris Brewer’s debut as head coach.

  Brewer has been in the Bears program for quite some time. He began his career as a volunteer varsity assistant coach. He then applied to be head coach but got rejected. He remained as assistant coach. When the position of head coach became available again, he applied once more. The job went to Brewer–not to Chris Brewer, but to his brother, Ben. He then pivoted, and became head coach for the junior varsity team for the next three years. As last year's season came to an end, head coach Ben Brewer stepped down. Brewer took advantage and tried again. He was accepted.  

“Third time’s a charm,” Brewer said.

Today, Brewer is the Dean of Students at Brattleboro Union High School, and the official head coach of the Brattleboro Bears soccer team.

“Coaching JV provided me with information on how to really teach the sport, and really put a lot of emphasis on the fundamentals, and building IQ,” Brewer said. “Whereas for varsity, it's been how to hone skills these kids already have, and make adjustments on a game to game basis. With JV, it was making adjustments mid-game, and with varsity it’s planning on making adjustments before each game.”

Players on the team all respect Brewer and have glowing remarks about him as a coach.  “No matter how many mistakes, how down on yourself you are, how bad you’ve been playing, he’s always there for everyone on this team. He’ll be there and lift you up and implant the exact confidence you need to play like yourself and play to the potential he sees in you,” junior Mark Richards said. 

Junior Gordie Kalill added, “He is very determined, passionate, and smart as a coach. He can be very serious while also allowing us to have fun.”

Brewer is excited to begin his journey as head coach for the Bears. “My goal every single year, besides winning a state title, is to create the best human beings that I can. When my players are in my program, and they step away from it, are they better people? That's my goal.”

The Bears currently hold a record of 3-2 heading into a much anticipated game against Burr and Burton on Sept 20th.