Home Again: Blevins Inspires Future Stars While Teaching Science at Salisbury High School Basketball

High School Basketball: Daniel Blevins Returns to Teaching

Published on January 13, 2025

ELKIN — Daniel Blevins, the former boys basketball coach at South Rowan, has returned home to teach science at Elkin High School. Starting this semester, he is excited to teach biology and chemistry at a smaller school with around 400 students.

This move feels like a homecoming for Blevins, who is 43. He enjoys the peacefulness of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the familiar flow of the Yadkin River. Living in this area means he can reconnect with family and old friends, as both he and his wife have parents nearby.

Blevins grew up in Ronda, just seven miles from Elkin. He was a talented athlete at East Wilkes High School, where he participated in basketball, football, and track and field. Later, he earned a biology degree from Western Carolina University. After a stint in the corporate world, he decided to pursue a career in teaching and coaching about ten years ago.

He coached at Hickory Ridge Middle School before taking over as head coach at South Rowan. His record there included a challenging period, with a significant losing streak. In 4½ seasons, his teams had 5 wins and 88 losses. The tough competition in the South Piedmont Conference made it difficult for South Rowan to find success. However, Blevins remains proud of his contributions to developing young men and instilling values, even if the wins didn’t come as often as he hoped.

Moving back to this area was a rare opportunity for Blevins. “In this area, it comes up about every 20 years or so,” he said. His family discussions focused on the benefits: being closer to family, especially for his son Cannon, who is showing promise as a pitching prospect. Cannon has transferred to East Wilkes High School, while Blevins also has two younger sons who are active in sports.

For now, Blevins is not coaching basketball, but he will assist with the Elkin Buckin’ Elks football team next fall. This role allows him to take the pressure off while still guiding young athletes positively.

“I appreciate the time I spent at South Rowan,” he said, giving special thanks to Athletic Director Angie Chrismon for the opportunity to work with great students and colleagues.

As Blevins settles into teaching, South Rowan has welcomed a new coach, Justin Pauley. The team has experienced a mix of close games, showing promise for the future.