USJ’s Bradley meets new football team

JACKSON, Tenn. — Rusty Bradley spent his Monday afternoon in unfamiliar territory. The Knoxville native met his new football family at USJ.

The former Christian Academy of Knoxville head coach repeatedly shared with players and parents in the Bruins’ field house that he’s excited about building on the program’s success.

“I sense a level of excitement with them,” Bradley said. “I know I’m excited and I hope they’re excited as well.

“Everybody in East Tennessee knows about USJ and the program. They’re well respected and I’m excited about being a part of it.”

Bradley didn’t shy away from his aspirations of bring a state championship to USJ. CAK collected their first two titles under Bradley in 2011 and 2012 against Milan.

Ultimately, Bradley says his vision for USJ is bigger than just a gold ball.

“That’s the goal, but that’s not going to be our ultimate goal,” Bradley said about a state title. “If we pay attention and focus every day, I think the big picture will take care of itself. That’s what I want our players t0 focus on.”