MADISON- In an interview with The Madison Record five years ago, Andy Blackston indicated he would know the time was right for he and his family to leave his position as head coach of the boy’s basketball program at Madison Academy. Now, five years later, the 47-year old has made the decision to exit the private school for a similar position at a much larger school, Brentwood Academy located in Brentwood, Tenn.

“This is what I needed as I feel I have accomplished what I wanted here at Madison Academy,” said Blackston. “There was an open door and Brentwood contacted me and this is a big-time move for me and my family.”

Blackston has been the head coach for the Mustangs for 16 seasons and has amassed a record of 326-198 making the playoffs 11 of those seasons winning five state championships and making the final four in each of those 11 appearances. He had three losing seasons among his tenure with two of those marks coming within the last four years.

He and his wife, Stacy, have two sons, Drew and Reese. Drew accepted a scholarship to play basketball at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville allowing Blackston to attend many of Drew’s games as possible beginning this fall. Blackston’s parents live in Clarksville, which is about an hour drive from the Music City. He was raised in Clarksville and feels his move is like a homecoming.

“A lot of things came together to make this happen and for what Brentwood is looking for, I am a fit,” said Blackston. “The school mission and I fit well. Since I came to Madison Academy I always wanted to be a Christian who happened to coach. Madison Academy has shaped me in both areas and I will forever be grateful for the chance to become a better man and coach.”

Blackston has taught Bible Studies since arriving at the Madison Academy campus. Once making his way to Brentwood he’s expected to teach geography with hopes of getting back into teaching Bible when possible.

“I have enjoyed my 16 years at MA and all the ways that we partnered together in building God’s Kingdom,” said Blackston. “I will miss this place and forever be grateful for the growth I experienced here.”

Blackston leaves a legacy as a winning basketball coach, but, more importantly, a legacy of a Christian.