Calling it the hardest decision of his life, West Lincoln headfootball coach Willie Brumfield resigned Wednesday from hisposition after one season at the helm. Brumfield has accepted acoaching/teaching position at Oak Grove Middle School.

“It was a very difficult decision,” said Brumfield. “It’s a realgood opportunity in the Hattiesburg area.”

Brumfield will coach and teach at Oak Grove Middle School,coaching junior high football and basketball. He said he plans topursue a doctorate degree in school administration at theUniversity of Southern Mississippi.

Brumfield, 34, is a 1986 graduate of Salem High School. Heattended Hinds Community College and graduated from USM with aMaster’s degree in sports administration.

Brumfield came to Brookhaven from Petal where he worked asdefensive coordinator.

West Lincoln went 1-10 last season, ending a 24-game losingstreak with a victory over Salem. West Lincoln is a Region 4-1Amember, one of the toughest regions in the state. “It’s like beinga member of the SEC,” said Brumfield.

“Our community support was just unbelievable,” Brumfield added.”It’s probably the toughest and hardest decision I’ve had to makein my adult life. You put a year of your life into something andyou have a lot of relationships.

“We’ve had a great offseason and spring,” Brumfield continued.”We have had over 30 kids every day in the weight room.”

Brumfield said he plans to spend a few more weeks at WestLincoln before moving to Hattiesburg. Luke Addison will remain onstaff as an assistant coach.

Brumfield is married to the former Patty Sullivan of BaySprings.

West Lincoln began its football program five years ago andBrumfield is the fourth head football coach. He replaced Roe Burnswho coached less than one year as the Bears went winless in 11games. Burns, a 25-year coaching veteran, retired for healthreasons.

Dan Holston coached one season prior to Burns and left beforethe second semester began. Preston Gordon was the first head coachat West Lincoln and left for an administrative position at NorthPike.

West Lincoln principal Jason Case said his door “was wide open”for football coach applicants. “We need to get someone willing tostay with us and establish a program.

“Coach Brumfield did a good job,” Case pointed out. “Thecommunity liked him and supported him.”

Case said he could be contacted at his West Lincoln office bycalling 833-4600.