He is the first challenger to oppose incumbent Republicans Newton Cohen and David Rowland, who filed on Jan. 3.

Andrews said he enjoys the quality of life in Rowan County and wants to help preserve its lifestyle. He acknowledged that running against Cohen and Rowland will be “a little difficult.”

Andrews, 55, of Ellis Street, came to Salisbury in 1985 and taught and coached football at Salisbury High School.

He retired from the public schools in January 1998 to pursue a career in real estate that he began part-time in 1987.

Andrews said he is excited about running for county commissioner and sees it as a new way to contribute to the community.

With his background in business and education, he feels he is well qualified to serve.

Andrews said he wants to make sure the quality of life is preserved as growth and expansion occurs. “This means making wise decisions on land use, supporting local businesses, supporting cultural activities as well as parks and recreation, improving education and preserving our rich history.”

As a former teacher, Andrews said he is concerned with funding of education. “More funding is needed at the grassroots level, in the classroom itself, where learning actually takes place.”

Andrews coached three years at N.C. State University, his alma mater, where he played football and earned a degree in recreation and parks administration. He later received a master’s degree from Gardner-Webb University.

Following N.C. State, he held a position as national sales manager in the sports division of Russell Hosiery Mills in Star. He served for five years as the executive director of the educational foundation and associate athletic director of finance at East Carolina University before deciding to return to public schools.

Andrews has two children and two grandchildren, all who now live in Pittsburgh, Pa. His wife, Barbara, teaches at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

The deadline for filing is noon, Feb. 7.