Chris Bernhard enters his second season with the Chowan football program and first as a full-time assistant coach, working with the Hawks' defensive backs.
During the 2025 season, Bernhard served as a graduate assistant and played a key role in the development of Chowan's secondary. The Hawks' defense recorded 10 interceptions and 20 pass breakups on the season, while helping produce five defensive All-Conference Carolinas selections, including First Team honoree Antwone Godley. The secondary played a pivotal role in several key victories throughout the year and helped the Hawks remain among the conference's top defensive units.
Prior to his time at Chowan, Bernhard graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Health and Physical Education and a concentration in Sports Science and Coaching. He served as a Student Assistant Coach for the Mountaineers from 2022 to 2024. During his time at App State, he worked closely with the inside linebackers unit, contributing to player development, scouting reports, practice preparation, game planning, and defensive signaling.
Before his collegiate experience, Bernhard coached at Weddington High School in North Carolina, where he served as the Varsity and JV Quarterbacks Coach and JV Offensive Coordinator. His leadership helped produce two Division I quarterbacks and contributed to Weddington's top-six state ranking in 2021.
A three-time state champion as a player at Weddington High School, Bernhard brings championship experience, attention to detail, and a passion for player development to his role with the Hawks.
