Calvin Burleson was the third child of eight. He began to show his athletic ability at a very young age, playing football most summers with family and neighbors. Calvin attended Ryan Elementary and Kashmere Jr & Sr High School. At Kashmere High School, Calvin played safety on the Varsity Football team, under the coaching leadership of Billie Matthews from 1967-69. His team was awarded the District championship in 1969 and he made All-District after leading team with 12 interceptions his senior year. He received his high school diploma in January 1969 from Kashmere Senior High School and because of his skillful athletic ability he received a full athletic scholarship to Texas Southern University.
At TSU, Calvin majored in Kinesiology with a minor in History. On the football field, he played cornerback and safety for four years under Coach Paul, Coach Benefield, and Coach Rod Paige. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 1973.
Upon graduation, Calvin was hired on as the assistant football coach and head track coach at Crispus Attucks in Houston ISD in 1974. There he realized his passion for educating and coaching inner-city youth. In 1977, he became the head football coach and athletic director where the football team was undefeated for 8 years. In 1984, he won the city championship against Ryan Middle School. Winning the city title brought lots of school pride to Sunnyside.
His outstanding winning record drew the attention of Coach Culverson, the athletic director at Evan E Worthing High School; where he was offered and accepted the defensive coordinator position. His leadership ability was recognized by district and school administrators and he was well respected by his student-athletes. Upon Coach Culverson retirement in 1995, Calvin accepted the position of head football coach and athletic director. The Worthing Football team was named district champs in 1996, 1997, 1998 and Coach Burleson was named Coach of the year.
His amazing ability to build relationships with all students, staff, and parents did not go unnoticed; Calvin fulfilled the ultimate goal in becoming the assistant principal at Worthing High for two years.
Calvin completed his career in administration and coaching career at Milby High School as athletic director, where the basketball team received the state championship in 2004. After 37 years in coaching and administration, he retired in 2010. Calvin now enjoys in his leisure church activities and time with family and friends.