Alumni Spotlight: Henry Brodnax's Journey of
Faith, Leadership, and AthleticS
By Samantha DePriest
Henry Brodnax’s journey from Trinity Christian School to a rising star at LaGrange College is one marked by perseverance, faith, and leadership. A standout athlete both on the football and baseball fields in high school, Henry’s story is one of determination and growth in academics, athletics, and and as a Christian leader.
Henry came to TCS in the 5th grade, alongside his older sister, and quickly made a name for himself. His dream was to become the starting quarterback for the school’s football team. He also excelled in baseball eventually becoming a three-year starter and team captain in high school. Henry was part of the graduating class of 2023, served in National Honor Society (NHS), BETA Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and took numerous AP and Dual Enrollment (DE) classes. With the support of TCS coaches Lance Duncan and Ryan Duncan, Henry shares that he felt more than equipped to play football at the next level.
Henry committed to Hanover College in Indiana where he was set to play both football and baseball. Midway through the second semester of his freshman year, he decided to transfer closer to home and entered the transfer portal. It was then that the LaGrange College (LC) defensive coordinator reached out offering him an opportunity to play the sport he loved less than an hour from home. He shared that immediately he felt a connection to the campus, coaches, and the tight-knit community at LC. He was offered opportunities from football programs around the country, but LC’s vision for rebuilding its football program resonated with him. The chance to play a key role in that process became an exciting prospect for him.
The summer leading into his sophomore year he came out of Fall Camp as the starting quarterback, a position he embraced with humility and leadership. The season started off slow, but Henry’s determination and growth as a leader were instrumental in the team’s success. Throughout the season, his role extended beyond his athletic abilities. He also became a spiritual leader on the team, most recently starting a weekly men’s Bible study every Monday for his teammates. Using Tony Evans’ Kingdom Man devotional, the group of 10-15 players gather to discuss life, pray for one another, and reflect on how to strengthen their faith amidst the pressures of college life and athletics.
Most recently in October, Henry was given the opportunity to share his faith journey and testimony during his chapel talk during Homecoming weekend. Speaking to a packed church, he shared how growing up in a Christian home and school can sometimes lead to complacency, but that spiritual warfare is constant, and every day requires a decision to stay committed to God. His transparency and vulnerability resonated with the LC community, with several alumni reaching out afterward to offer words of encouragement. Henry shared that a handful of football players made the decision to sign up to speak at future chapel services following his testimony. Before home games, several team members also serve in local elementary schools reading to students. Henry’s commitment to praying for his team before games and having a teammate lead a prayer at halftime is also fostering a stronger sense of unity and purpose among the players.
The LC football team finished 6-2 in conference play and 6-4 overall, securing their best record since 2009 and finishing second in the conference. One of his most memorable moments was the team’s dramatic win against Huntingdon, where they were down to the wire and managed to secure victory with just 22 seconds left in the game.
Henry shares that the support of his college professors and teammates, along with the strong sense of community at LC, contribute to his personal and athletic growth. His Anatomy teacher, for example, made it a point to update him on his stats every Monday. The small campus atmosphere has made it easy for him to connect with others, including his teammates, professors, and even his grandfather, who comes down every Wednesday to enjoy lunch with him.
In his final game of the season, with 30 friends and family members in the stands, he was surrounded by the unwavering support. The close-knit environment at LC is allowing him to thrive. As he moves forward in his journey, Henry’s story serves as an inspiring example of how the firm foundation of faith and leadership can come together to shape not only a successful career but also a life of purpose.