ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Ken Niumatalolo set the bar high for what a military academy could still accomplish in major college football.
The past three seasons at Navy weren’t up to that standard.
Niumatalolo is out after 15 years at the helm. The academy announced Sunday that he would not return — a day after the Midshipmen lost to Army in double overtime and finished 4-8 for the second straight season. Niumatalolo is the program’s wins leader with a 109-83 record, but after going 11-2 in 2019, Navy hasn’t finished above .500 since.
“Our sincerest gratitude to Coach Ken for what has been a distinguished and impactful legacy at the Naval Academy,” athletic director Chet Gladchuk said in a release. “Navy football flourished for many years under his leadership. He will forever be remembered for the influence he has had on the lives of those who played for him.”
Defensive coordinator Brian Newberry was named interim coach. Gladchuk is expected to speak to reporters Monday.