MURFREESBORO, N.C. - Chowan University's Flag Football Coach, Sherry Lewis, has been named the Soldiers to Sidelines Coach of the Month for October. Lewis is in her first season as the head coach of the cross country teams and flag football. Lewis is the first head coach of the flag football team as they will compete officially in their inaugural season this spring.
Soldiers to Sidelines provides training and opportunities for all branches of the military to be excellent coaches in various sports so they will inspire, motivate, and encourage athletes.
Lewis, a former two-sport athlete at Chowan, has proudly served in the Army Reserve for 13 years. She has completed several overseas tours including Italy, Africa, and the Middle East.
"We are so honored to have Sherry as part of our coaching staff," said Patrick Mashuda, Associate Vice President for Athletics and Compliance. "Sherry's leadership extends well beyond the sidelines and we look forward to her putting what she has learned in the military to use every day whether working with athletes or in the community she serves."
This month, Soldiers To Sidelines proudly spotlights Sherry Lewis, an Army Reserve Specialist and dynamic multi-sport coach whose leadership and passion for mentorship exemplify the heart of the STS mission. Currently serving as Head Coach for Women's Flag Football and Men's & Women's Cross Country at Chowan University (Division II), Sherry's journey from lifelong athlete to transformative coach reflects her dedication to empowering others through sport. Drawing on lessons from her military service, Sherry has built a coaching philosophy rooted in resilience, discipline, and compassion — using athletics not only to shape competitors but to cultivate leaders. Her story is one of inspiration, service, and the power of giving back to the next generation. Read the interview below to learn more about Coach Lewis's coaching journey and impact.
STS: Tell your story about how and why you went into coaching.
Coach Lewis: I have been an athlete my entire life, and my family is full of them as well. I watched my loved ones compete all through adulthood, but my Uncle Craig inspired me to become a coach. I watched the impact he has had on so many young ones over the span of 30 years without recognition from anyone. He coaches wrestling and has birthed so many regional and state champions who have gone on to become coaches, lawyers, doctors, teachers, etc., that keep in contact with him because of the impact he has had on them. I wanted to do the same, but in my own way. This is sort of my way of giving back but also honoring the legacy, if you will. I want to inspire the next group of young women.
STS: How has your military experience influenced you as a coach?
Coach Lewis: My military experience has allowed me to develop my leadership skills, and the ability to interact with people from all walks of life, that have helped me to better understand the cultural and environmental differences that have directly influenced my development as a coach. Were it not for the experience gained while serving, I'm sure I wouldn't be the coach that I am today.
STS: How has Soldiers To Sidelines impacted your life?
Coach Lewis: STS has opened my eyes to opportunities that I never thought possible. I remember seeing the post on Facebook a few years ago and being excited about earning a certification. I wouldn't have thought I'd end up in NFL Stadiums. Now my mind is open to thinking bigger and growing as a coach, especially one tasked with building a program from the ground up. I am one of the few to do this and am excited about the journey ahead.
STS: Describe a coaching interaction with a player, or group of players, that has a special place in your heart?
Coach Lewis: Witnessing some of my kids become coaches, mothers, teachers, entrepreneurs, and commissioned from the Naval Academy. That one might be my favorite, although I am proud of every one of my kids.
STS: What are your aspirations in coaching?
Coach Lewis: Honestly, I'm just going where God takes me on this journey. I thought coaching high school ball was enough for me, but now that I'm here at this level, I'd love to see where it takes me and the many young lives I can positively impact along the way.
STS: What was the most difficult challenge you have experienced in coaching, and what have you learned from that experience?
Coach Lewis: Keeping the kids from underserved communities out of trouble and away from becoming unfair statistics. I don't have one situation to pinpoint because this is usual for most of my coaching experiences. I somehow became a safe space for them and someone they listened to, too.
STS: Is there anything else you can share with us about your coaching story?
Coach Lewis: My goal is to directly impact, mentor and grow opportunities for young women to compete, lead, teach and coach by using sports as a vessel. Coaching has become my ministry.
