Leaving a Legacy: Charlie Bryant's Jersey Retirement
At First Assembly Christian School, we believe the legacy of a Crusader extends beyond the field or court. It is found in the character a student builds, the people they influence, and the way they carry what they have learned into the world.
On September 4, 2026, FACS was proud to honor alumnus Charlie Bryant, Class of 2006, by retiring his jersey number and celebrating a Crusader whose legacy represents dedication, leadership, and excellence.
During his four years at FACS, Charlie was a standout student-athlete. He lettered in football all four years under Coach Philip Spain, primarily playing offensive line. He was selected to the All-Shelby-Metro Team in 2004 and 2005, named a Division II Class A All-State player during his final two seasons, and was chosen as team captain his senior year.
Throughout Charlie's four seasons, the Crusaders advanced to the playoffs.
His accomplishments extended to the basketball court as well. Charlie earned a varsity letter and was named All-Metro in 2004. In 2006, he was the team's top rebounder and became one of the few basketball players in school history to reach the 1,000-point club.
But Charlie's FACS experience was about much more than athletics. He was a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Honor Society, and chess team, demonstrating a commitment to both his faith and academics.
Taking the Next Step
After graduating from FACS, Charlie continued his football career at the University of Memphis, where he joined the Tigers in August 2006 and lettered for four years.
His collegiate career included a number of notable accomplishments. In 2007, he was named Memphis Co-Defensive Scout Team Player of the Year. He recorded a solo tackle in the fourth quarter of the New Orleans Bowl and later made three tackles and recovered a fumble in the 2008 Blue-Gray Game.
In 2008, Charlie received the Glenn Jones Award, presented to players who demonstrate leadership through desire, dedication, and courage. In 2009, he finished the season with eight tackles, including four solo stops, along with two tackles for loss.
And while his athletic accomplishments were significant, Charlie's commitment to academics was equally important.
He was named to the Tiger 3.0 Club for four semesters, earned a place on the C-USA Commissioner's Honor Roll for 2008–09, and was recognized on the University of Memphis Dean's List in fall 2008. His journey eventually took him to the professional level. In 2011, Charlie signed with the San Diego Chargers as a free agent, where he was a member of the practice squad and appeared in preseason games. In 2013, the Dallas Cowboys called, providing another opportunity to continue his football career. Ultimately, injuries during the Cowboys' spring season led Charlie to hang up his cleats.
A Legacy Worth Honoring
Charlie Bryant's story is a reminder that success is not defined by a single season, a championship, or a professional contract. His legacy was built through years of showing up, working hard, leading others, pursuing excellence in the classroom, and remaining committed to the things that mattered.
His journey from the halls of FACS to the University of Memphis and ultimately to professional football is one our Crusader community can be proud to celebrate.
Charlie, thank you for the example you have set for generations of Crusaders. Thank you for your dedication to excellence and for demonstrating that with Christ, there are endless possibilities.
We are proud to call him a Crusader. In honor of his legacy, First Assembly Christian School is proud to retire Charlie's jersey number.
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