Wayzata High School head football coach Lambert Brown has resigned from his position, closing a remarkable chapter defined by championship success, personal mentorship, and a deep investment in the lives of student-athletes.
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Brown took over the Wayzata program in 2016 after longtime head coach Brad Anderson stepped down following 18 seasons and three state championships. He arrived with a strong coaching résumé, having previously led programs at Fridley and Chaska and serving on staff at White Bear Lake. A former Concordia University–St. Paul player and All-Conference selection, Brown brought both experience and a steady, relationship-driven leadership style to one of Minnesota’s premier football schools.
His impact was quickly felt. After rebuilding the Trojans through the late 2010s, Brown guided Wayzata to an undefeated regular season and the 2019 Class 6A state championship. The following year, he was selected as Minnesota’s nominee and ultimately the national runner-up for the NFL’s Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award, one of the sport’s top honors for integrity, character, and community influence.
Brown shared the news quietly with his coaching staff Sunday evening following the senior banquet, wanting the night to remain centered on the players. “I didn’t want the announcement to take anything away from the banquet or the seniors,” he said. “That night was for them. I wanted to keep the focus where it belonged.” He notified players the following day.
Reflecting on his tenure, Brown said that while the Trojans’ 2019 state championship remains an unforgettable moment, it was never the wins alone that defined the job for him. “Yeah, the state championship was incredible — something we’ll always remember,” he said. “But for me, the real highlights were watching kids grow. Seeing boys turn into young men, seeing them leave the program better people… that’s what this job is really about.”
Under his leadership, Wayzata football became known for a culture centered on humility, accountability, and community impact. Brown’s expectations went beyond the field: leave spaces better than they were found, treat everyone with respect, and carry themselves as leaders in the building. His approach helped shape generations of Trojans, many of whom credit him with instilling values they carry well beyond high school.
Brown spoke openly about how at peace he feels with the decision. “I’m completely at peace with it,” he said. “This is the first time in a long time I’ve woken up without that weight on my shoulders. It feels right.”
As for what comes next, he said there is no immediate plan besides focusing on family. “I just want to put my family first and enjoy my son’s senior year,” Brown shared. “I’ve missed a lot of moments over the years. I want to be there for this one.”
Beyond football strategy and Friday night lights, Brown described Wayzata as a community that welcomed him, supported him, and made the experience meaningful. “Honestly, I’m just really grateful for the opportunity to coach at Wayzata,” he said. “It’s a special place, and the relationships I’ve been able to build with these kids, their families, and the staff — that’s what means the most to me.”
His resignation marks the end of a significant era for Wayzata football. But the impact of his leadership — measured in character, relationships, and the growth of the young people he coached — will remain woven into the fabric of the program.
