Ken Niumatalolo out as Navy football coach

Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo will not be returning in 2023, the school announced Sunday.

Niumatalolo is the winningest coach in program history, going 109-83 in 15 seasons after taking over from Paul Johnson in 2008.

“Our sincerest gratitude to Coach Ken for what has been a distinguished and impactful legacy at the Naval Academy,” Navy Athletic Director Chet Gladchuk said in a statement. “Navy football flourished for many years under his leadership. He will always be remembered for the impact he had on the lives of those who played for him. appreciation for his 25 years of service to the Academy.”

Niumatalolo, who played quarterback in Hawai’i from 1987-89, had two stints at Annapolis, coaching running backs (1995-96), serving as offensive coordinator (1997-98) and assistant head coach (2002-07).

He led the Midshipmen to three double-digit seasons (2009, 2015, 2019), beat Army 11 times, won six Commander-in-Chief Trophies and led the program to a record six bowl victories.

The Navy lost 20-17 to the Army in double overtime Saturday in the first overtime game of the 123-year series; the Mids went 4-8 for a second straight season.

Defensive coordinator Brian Newberry was named interim coach.