Bo Milton is returning home.

Brookhaven Academy’s head football coach has accepted a similarposition at his alma mater, McComb Parklane Academy. He wasofficially introduced this afternoon during a press conference atParklane.

“It feels good to go home,” said Milton. “I’m looking forward toit.”

Milton replaces longtime head coach Charlie Newlon who isstepping down. Newlon is expected to remain at the school as aneducator. Newlon’s Pioneers finished 5-5 this season.

Newlon, 62, has been at Parklane for 27 years. He is a graduateof David Lipscomb University.

Milton, 37, is a Northwestern (La.) State University graduate.He coached two years at Brookhaven Academy, winning two districtchampionships and posting a 19-6 record. His Cougars finished 11-2in 2006, advancing to the third round of the MPSA Class AA stateplayoffs. They were 8-4 this season and reached the first round ofthe playoffs.

Milton said he appreciated the overall support provided by theBrookhaven Academy fans and the administration. “I had support fromthe top to the bottom.

“I had a lot of support from the administration,” he continued.”Everything was great at Brookhaven. The players responded andworked hard to be successful.”

Milton moved to Brookhaven after a successful stint atTri-County Academy in Flora. He played football for Coach Newlon atParklane.

Brookhaven Academy headmaster Dr. Miller Hammill, said Miltonwas an asset to the school’s athletic program. “We are veryappreciative of Coach Milton and what he has done for our footballprogram. We hate to lose him but we wish him the best atParklane.”

Hammill said the school’s board of trustees would probably meetthis week and select a search committee. They will begin acceptingapplications for the vacancy. “We will move as quickly aspossible.”

Milton will remain on staff through May 15, 2008, as high schoolprincipal. He also coaches the track team.

“We have had a great working relationship with Coach Milton,”said Hammill. “He has created a lot of interest and enthusiasm inour football team, especially among the younger students.”

Hammill said the search committee would review all applicantsand reduce the number to three or four. That list would besubmitted to the board for consideration.