Bo Milton is excited about his new head coaching job. The Summitnative has been hired to direct the Brookhaven Academy footballprogram.

Milton, 35, was introduced to a group of BA players, parents andfans Friday afternoon in the John R. Gray Gymnasium. He spentseveral minutes visiting with his new team.

During the last nine seasons, Milton has been in charge of theTri-County Academy football program. His teams have made theplayoffs nine years and won the district title 4 times. Tri-Countywas Class A state runner-up in 1997 and 2000.

“I’m excited about this opportunity to coach at BrookhavenAcademy,” said Milton. “I was impressed by the school and theadministration during the interview process.”

Milton replaces Ray Ishee who retired from coaching after 5years at BA’s helm. Ishee’s Cougars amassed a 32-23 record duringthat span. They were 6-5 last season.

“There’s a genuine interest in having a good football programhere,” said Milton. “There have been some major improvements to thefacilities and the field house.”

A 1988 McComb Parklane graduate, Milton was a star offensivelineman on the Pioneers’ 1986-87 state championship teams that werecoached by Charlie Newlon.

Milton continued his football career at Southwest MississippiCommunity College and Northwestern State (La.) University. He iscompleting a master’s degree in education technology thissummer.

He is married to the former Shonda Wise of Winfield, La. Theyare members of the Baptist faith and have two daughters, GeorgiaLee, age 7; and Mary Jordan, age 3.

Brookhaven Academy headmaster Dr. Miller Hammill said severaloutstanding coaches had applied for the position. Milton gave animpressive interview.

“Coach Milton is a proven winner,” said Hammill. “He is a personof character and will be a great asset to our Cougar family atBrookhaven Academy.”

Milton is on contract at Tri-County until May. He plans toconduct spring football practice after the Cougars complete theirbaseball season. He also plans to maintain a strong summer programof weight training and conditioning.

“We plan to accomplish a lot this summer,” said Milton.

Asked about his football strategy, Milton said he preferred aWing-T formation, with buck-sweep, veer and midline attacks. “Ourstaff will work together on offense and defense.”

Milton has the advantage of a standout veteranquarterback/running back returning in rising senior Price Sessumswho was named The DAILY LEADER’S Most Valuable Player on the 2005All-Lincoln County Football Team.

Milton teaches world history, economics and business math atTri-County. A spiritual man, he has team chapel before every Fridayfootball game.

He began his coaching career as an assistant atMadison-Ridgeland Academy for one year before going to CopiahAcademy in 1994-95 as an assistant to Jay Swindle.