Key Points
  • Andy Lowry, the 2023 Denver Post All-Colorado Coach of the Year, led Columbine to an undefeated season and won his sixth state championship in 30 years as the head coach.
  • Lowry's team achieved this feat by upsetting four-time defending champion Cherry Creek in the title game, despite having a roster with zero FBS scholarship offers, emphasizing a "junkyard dawg" mentality.
  • Lowry faced emotional turmoil, grieving the death of his niece and dealing with his wife Janet's ongoing battle with bone cancer.
  • Despite these challenges, he found strength in his faith and his football team, drawing perspective from his own experiences to empathize with his players and their families.
  • The Rebels finished the season 14-0, with their only true scare coming against Arapahoe, marking a career win No. 300 for Lowry.
  • Lowry's coaching style and the team's success were attributed to their well-oiled, run-oriented, double tight-end offense, and their ability to adapt, exemplified by the QB's performance in critical moments.
  • Lowry's dedication to refining the team's offense was highlighted, including annual trips to Alaska for tips and insights to enhance their playing style.
  • Despite graduating 23 seniors, Lowry is committed to rebuilding for the 2024 season, emphasizing his passion and vocation for coaching.
  • Other finalists for Coach of the Year included Mike D. Gabriel of Holy Family, Jared Yannacito of Ralston Valley, Jeff Giger of Erie, and Jesse German of Green Mountain.