PILOT MOUNTAIN — East Surry High School introduced its new head football coach on May 13.
“I am pleased to announce that Caleb Pardue will be the next head football coach at East Surry High School,” said Principal Shannon DuPlessis. “He is energetic and passionate about our program. Coach Pardue sets high expectations for himself and those around him. He brings a vision that will develop student-athletes into good citizens through accountability and believing in something more than themselves.
“I believe Coach Pardue’s leadership will propel our program into winning championships.”
Pardue, a graduate of Starmount High School, earned a degree in Social Studies Education from Appalachian State University in 2013. He also obtained an additional certification in K-12 Physical Education, and began working in public schools immediately as a teacher and coach.
Pardue was an assistant coach at Watauga High School from 2010-2012, then served as Defensive Coordinator at North Iredell in 2013. He returned to his alma mater for the 2014-15 seasons, then moved to Walkertown and served as Offensive Coordinator 2016-17.
Pardue moved to West Brunswick in 2018 and, over the next five years, served as defensive coordinator and eventually head coach. He also coached baseball at the school.
Pardue most recently served as the Defensive Backs Coach for Mount Airy’s 1A State Championship squad in 2023. The Bears only allowed 5.7 points per game and tied a school record with nine shutouts during their 16-0 season
“I am thrilled to embark on this new journey at East Surry, a community renowned for its passion for football and commitment to success,” Pardue said. “The incredible tradition and unwavering support, evidenced by top-notch facilities and community involvement, make East Surry what I believe to be one of the best jobs in North Carolina. My family—Molly, Stella, Monroe, Graham, and I—are deeply grateful to Mrs. DuPlessis and the administration for entrusting us with the opportunity to lead such a storied program and become part of this wonderful community.
“As one of our favorite family sayings goes, ‘The best is yet to come,’ and we are eager to embrace the journey ahead with this historic program and wonderful community.”
East Surry Athletic Director Chad Freeman said, “We are excited to have Coach Pardue join East Surry as our Head Football Coach. His passion and leadership will help our young men excel on the football field, in the classroom and in the community."
Pardue takes over a program previously led by Trent Lowman, who accumulated a 68-12 overall record from 2018-23. During Lowman’s tenure, East Surry won four conference titles, three 1-AA West Regional Championships, one 1-AA State Championship (2019) and finished 2A West Regional Runner-up once.
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