Larry Brown goes by Dr. Lawrence Brown these days.
A 2000 graduate of South High School, Brown earned a doctorate of education in 2020. He has lived in Las Vegas, Nev., for 10 years and works as an assistant principal at Southern Nevada Trades High School.
Much of his success can be traced back to what he accomplished at Lane College, both as a student and as a football player. As a senior in 2005, he averaged 5.8 tackles per game as a linebacker, ranking 14th in the nation in Division II.
Twenty-one years later, Brown will be inducted into the Lane College Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place Oct. 30 in Jackson, Tenn., and the next day, Brown will be recognized during halftime of a game against Tuskegee University.
“It’s just an incredible honor,” Brown said. “It’s a truly proud moment for me. I thank my coaches, my teammates, my family and everyone who supported me along the way. I can say that this recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to give back to the community that has meant so much to me.”
Brown did not take a traditional route to Lane. After playing at South, where he was a News-Sun All-Area linebacker as a senior in 1999, Brown began his college football career at Urbana University. He lasted one semester. A 0.67 GPA cost him a chance to stay in school and continue his career.
“I played football and ran track, and I did amazing at South High School,” Brown said. “Credit to South High School. But then, going to Urbana University, I really wasn’t focused on academics. It was basically football, football, football.”
Brown spent a year improving his grades at Clark State Community College. Meanwhile, he kept in shape by working out at Wittenberg University.
When the opportunity to play for Lane, a historically black college, came about, Brown made the most of it. He played the 2003, 2004 and 2005 seasons for Lane. He led the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference with 123 tackles as a junior.
“Going to Lane College really changed my whole life,” Brown said. “The institution, the president, the coaches, the community, they made me become a Lane Man. That’s what we call each other.”
Brown returned to Springfield after college to coach at South, and he taught health and physical education. He later coached at Springfield High School as well. He spent time teaching and coaching in Marion, Ohio, as well. He also played Arena Football with the Louisville Fire.
Brown remains passionate about Springfield kids even though he lives in Nevada.
“To student-athletes in Springfield, I really want to say never stop dreaming,” he said. “Always set your goals high. Your journey may be challenging at times, but with dedication, hard work and believing in yourself, anything is possible. Use your setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, and remember that every step forward brings you closer to your vision and dreams.
“Keep pushing, stay committed and know that your efforts can inspire others and create a legacy of excellence for Springfield. Believe in your potential. You are definitely capable of achieving greatness.”