MADISON- Tom Berryman has been named as head coach of the Madison Academy boy’s basketball program. The 34-year old comes to the Mustangs’ after four seasons as an assistant coach for the University of North Alabama Lions.

“The Madison Academy program has a rich history of winning championships and helping prepare players to play collegiately,” said Berryman upon his hiring. “Our staff and players will work diligently to ensure that we continue to represent the program in a first-class manner.”

Berryman takes over the position vacated by Andy Blackston who recently resigned to take a new coaching job in Tennessee. Blackston won five state titles and his teams appeared in six additional Final Fours since 2006.

Mark Mincher, athletic director at Madison Academy, said of his new hire, “We are excited about Tom and his family to the MA family. He brings a wealth of basketball coaching experience to our basketball program, but more importantly, his vision aligns perfectly with the mission of Madison Academy.”

In his four seasons at UNA, Berryman helped the Lions to the ASUN Conference Tournament each year and the program had six all-conference selections. He specializes in offense and looks to excel the production of the Mustangs in that area.

The Florence native began coaching for high schools and soon advanced to the college ranks in 2010 as a graduate assistant at the University of Alabama. He made stops at Southeast Missouri, University of Charleston and was on staff at Alabama for four years. He worked with numerous All-Conference players including three that went onto the NBA.

Berryman and his wife, Kinsey, were married in 2015 and have three daughters: Ella, 4, Kate, 2, Anna, newborn.

“I am thrilled to join the Madison Academy community as the school strives to help all of our students grow mentally, physically and spiritually. I look forward to working with the rest of the faculty and staff to help fulfill this mission,” said Berryman.