Chennis Berry is one of the most prominent HBCU coaches in the country, finding success at every stop in his football journey. In an interview with Inside The Headset, Berry revealed that an early career dismissal was pivotal in propelling his coaching journey to its current success.

After completing his playing career at Savannah State, Berry received an opportunity from former Savannah State coach Joe Crosby to join Morris Brown College as their offensive line coach. At just 23 years old, this was a significant break for Berry. However, the season didn’t end as he expected.

“When the season was over he called me in the office and said ‘you know what, we’re going to a different direction,” Berry recounted in his signature, gruff voice. “We need some more experience as an O-line coach. You’re a little young and we need to take this program to the next level, so we’re going to have to go in a different direction.”

Despite the setback, Berry didn’t allow this moment to derail his ambitions. Almost immediately, he was added to George Small’s staff at Kentucky State University. During his time there, Berry not only honed his coaching skills but also pursued a master’s degree, demonstrating his commitment to both personal and professional growth.

Berry’s dedication and talent soon paid off. A few years later, Small was hired as the head coach at North Carolina A&T, and Berry joined him as the offensive line coach. This move further solidified Berry’s reputation as a skilled and resourceful coach.

“I really believe that that firing, really spearheaded my career because it put me in front of people in different staffs that now,” Berry said of the career-defining moment. “Every job — I’m going to encourage young people with this. Up until I became a head coach — and I started interviewing for head coaching jobs — out of all the jobs I’ve ever had, and I’ve worked at nine different institutions. I’ve never interviewed. The crazy thing about never interviewing is my reputation started to progress and people started to know me.”

Berry does indeed have a stellar reputation in the HBCU world. He recently was hired to become the next head coach of South Carolina State, replacing legendary head coach Buddy Pough who led the team for 22 seasons. Berry has built up an impressive resume for himself as an assistant coach and a head coach that has prepared him for his latest role.

He assumed the head coach position at Benedict College in 2020, where he transformed the program into a perennial winner. Under his leadership, Benedict College went undefeated for two consecutive seasons, winning the SIAC Championship in 2022 and 2023. His teams were ranked first in NCAA Super Region II both seasons and received a bye in the first round of the Division II Playoffs. Berry’s coaching résumé also includes positions at Morris Brown, Kentucky State, Fort Valley State, North Carolina A&T, Howard, and Morgan State, showcasing his extensive experience and versatility in various roles.

The Chennis Berry era at South Carolina State starts with a well-anticipated matchup against the reigning Celebration Bowl champion Florida A&M Rattlers on August 31st. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.