In his first term as coach, 1909 to 1910, he posted a record of 10–1–3, but this was exclusively against southern California competition, with no major colleges on the schedule. Like many schools, USC switched from football to rugby, from 1911 to 1913. Cromwell returned as football coach in 1916, by which time USC's teams had begun to be known as the Trojans.
During his first coaching stint (1909-1910), he compiled a record of 10 wins, 1 loss, and 3 ties, but these were all against Southern California opponents. Like many schools, USC switched from football to rugby between 1911 and 1913. Cromwell returned as the head coach in 1916, when USC's teams began being called "Trojans."