West Grand High School Football and Track Coach Chris Brown has been named the 2026 National High School Athletic Coaches Association National Coach of the Year in Football, earning one of the highest honors in high school athletics.

This isn’t the first time Brown has been nominated as one of eight finalists for the national title. Colorado High School Coaches Association nominated Brown for the first time for West Grand’s 2000 football season, then again for their 2017 season. But July 1 marked the first time he landed on top as the 2026 National Coach of the Year.

His career is defined by a 50-year legacy that includes 382 wins, four state championships, four state runner-up finishes, 41 playoff appearances and 28 league titles. He was also inducted into the Colorado High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2005 and later into the National High School Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame in 2008.

Despite the milestones, Brown credits the student-athletes, families, and community that have supported the team throughout the years.

“Everybody who ever played for us had a part in it,” Brown said. “The only way that you’re successful is if you have kids that come out, and stick with it, and work hard, and get better and have good attitudes. They’re a big part of it.”

Brown also credited strong administrators, athletic directors and community support for helping create a place where football could thrive.

“I was lucky to land in a spot that we like here in Kremmling,” Brown said. “People over here kind of fell in love with football. We’ve had success, so that always helps. And we’ve had good support.”

As Brown prepares for another season, he remains focused on his players and the continued growth of the Mustang program.

“The kids get along great. Got a few holes to fill, but we’ve got a good group, and hopefully we’ll have a good year,” he said.