Denny Duron is a name synonymous with both football and faith. As the head coach and senior pastor of Evangel Christian Academy in Shreveport, Louisiana, Duron has made a profound impact on the lives of countless young athletes and their families. His journey from being a college quarterback to becoming a renowned coach and pastor is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his faith and his passion for football.
1. Early Life and Football Career
Born on August 24, 1952, in Angleton, Texas, Denny Duron's love for football began early. He played quarterback for the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs from 1970 to 1973, leading the team to two national championships in 1972 and 1973. Duron's impressive performance earned him the Southland Conference MVP award in 1973. His college career was marked by significant achievements, including a 24-1 record and multiple all-Southland Conference first-team selections.
After college, Duron pursued a professional football career. He played for the Birmingham Americans in the World Football League for two years before signing with the Washington Redskins in 1976. However, it was during his time at Redskins' training camp that Duron received a divine call to change his life's direction. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his journey into ministry.
2. Transition to Ministry
The Washington Star's headline 'Even Redskins no match for the call of God' encapsulated Duron's transformation. He walked away from professional football to answer God's call, which led him to become a senior pastor at Shreveport Community Church. Duron's ministry began on the football field but soon expanded beyond it.
Duron's faith journey is deeply intertwined with his coaching career. He believes that football serves as a platform to spread the message of Jesus Christ. As he often says, 'Football is just a tool; it's the conduit through which we can put the message of Jesus into their lives.' This philosophy has guided him in coaching numerous all-Americans and re-writing national offensive record books.
3. Founding Evangel Christian Academy
In 1980, Duron founded the Evangel Christian Academy football program in Shreveport, Louisiana. The academy has since achieved national prominence, winning 12 district championships, 14 state championships, and one national title. Evangel Christian Academy was named by USA Today as one of the top eight high school springboards to the NFL.
Under Duron's leadership, Evangel Christian Academy has produced 14 graduates who have played in the NFL. The academy's success extends beyond football; it has become a beacon for Christian values and community outreach. Duron's vision for Evangel Christian Academy is clear: 'I'm just so grateful to God that at 72 years old, I have a chance to show up every morning and teach the word of God to 75 young men.'
4. Impact on Players
Duron's influence extends far beyond the football field. He has been instrumental in shaping young lives through his ministry. Many players have come from troubled backgrounds, but under Duron's guidance, they find solace in their faith and a sense of belonging within the Evangel Christian Academy community.
The documentary series 'God. Family. Football.' on Fox Nation highlights real-life challenges faced by players at Evangel Christian Academy. From dealing with ill family members to overcoming peer pressures and personal struggles, Duron's team provides a supportive environment where players can grow both spiritually and athletically.
5. Current Role and Legacy
Today, Duron serves as both the head coach and chancellor of Evangel Christian Academy. His pastoral duties are deeply intertwined with his coaching responsibilities, ensuring that every aspect of the academy reflects Christian values.
Duron's legacy extends beyond his achievements in football and ministry. He has written a Grammy Award-winning song titled 'Weve Come to Worship,' performed by the Blackwood Brothers. Additionally, he holds a patent for 'Fungoman,' an automated pitching machine used by various professional, college, and high school baseball, softball, and tennis programs.
Duron's impact on Evangel Christian Academy has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades. He has been awarded for best screenplay at the Christian Film Festival for 'The Healer' and has received various other awards in the arts.
6. Conclusion
Denny Duron's journey is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. From his early days as a college quarterback to his current role as a renowned coach and pastor, Duron has consistently demonstrated his commitment to spreading the message of Jesus Christ through football.
As Evangel Christian Academy continues to thrive under Duron's leadership, it remains a beacon of hope for young athletes seeking both spiritual guidance and athletic excellence. The story of Denny Duron serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the transformative power of faith and sports.
