From Navy to San Jose State: Spartans’ coach Ken Niumatalolo reflects on journey full of ‘tender mercies’

‘I’ve definitely seen the hand of the Lord from Navy to here,’ Niumatalolo said

Published: Nov 3, 2024, 5:05 p.m. MST

San Jose State head coach Ken Niumatalolo addresses his team in the locker room after the Spartans defeated Sacramento State, 42-24, at CEFCU Stadium on August 29, 2024, in San Jose, California. San Jose State Athletics

Nearly two years ago, Ken Niumatalolo, the winningest football coach in Navy history, was fired immediately after the Midshipmen lost to Army in double overtime on Dec. 11, 2022.

The abrupt dismissal marked the end of a 25-year era for Niumatalolo and his family at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

Looking back, Niumatalolo, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, isn’t bitter about how things ended but can clearly see the Lord’s hand guiding his life.

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