Navy promotes Newberry, defensive coordinator, to head coach

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Navy promoted defensive coordinator Brian Newberry to head coach on Monday, replacing Ken Niumatalolo, the winningest coach in school history who was fired a week ago.

Newberry, 51 has led the Midshipmen defense the past four seasons. Although his college coaching experience dates back to 2000, this will be Newberry’s first job as a head coach.

“Coach Newberry is respected and was highly endorsed by many within the Navy football family,” Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk said in a statement. “Often there comes a time in the careers of highly accomplished coaches in our profession when documented credibility aligns with logical leadership opportunity and Coach Newberry’s time is now.”

Some have criticized Gladchuk for firing Niumatalolo After 16 seasons at the school, Navy won 109 victories. However, Navy lost four of the five last years.

Navy lost to Army in overtime Dec. 10 to end its season with 4-8 records.

Baylor’s Newberry was a part of a defense that placed sixth in run defense in the country.

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