A Legacy Remembered
Curt Newsome, who spent a decade at the helm of Emory & Henry’s football program, died earlier this week at the age of 67. University officials confirmed the loss and highlighted his deep commitment to mentoring student‑athletes both on and off the field.
During his tenure, Newsome compiled a 53‑42 record and presided over six winning seasons. He was named Old Dominion Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2014 and guided the team to the ODAC championship game in the spring of 2021, moments that cemented his reputation as a transformative figure in the program’s modern era.
Beyond the win‑loss column, Newsome’s influence was felt in the development of dozens of players who earned all‑conference recognition. Notable alumni such as Devontae Jordan, who captured the Lanier Award as Virginia’s top small‑college player in 2021, and defensive standout Jay Swegheimer, a 2021 second‑team All‑America selection, exemplify the talent he nurtured.
His leadership also extended to the program’s historic transition from NCAA Division III to Division II. The move, overseen by Newsome, opened new competitive avenues and contributed to a surge in institutional pride. Former players and colleagues recall his strategic vision and ability to rally the campus community around a shared goal.
Before arriving at Emory & Henry, Newsome amassed 15 years of experience in Division I football, including stints at James Madison University and Virginia Tech. At Virginia Tech, he served seven seasons as offensive line coach, helping the Hokies secure three Atlantic Coast Conference championships between 2007 and 2010. His earlier career as a high school coach earned him five district coach‑of‑the‑year honors and three Eastern Region Coach of the Year awards, as well as state and AP Coach of the Year recognitions in 1998.
In 2024, Newsome was inducted into the Emory & Henry Sports Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting impact on the university and the broader football community. University President Dr. Jennifer L. Smith praised his ‘unwavering dedication to excellence and character,’ noting that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of student‑athletes.