Annapolis, MD -- (Sports Network) - Navy wasted little time replacing Paul Johnson, naming longtime assistant Ken Niumatalolo head football coach on Saturday.

The announcement came just one day after Johnson left the Naval Academy for his roots. Johnson coached five seasons at I-AA juggernaut Georgia Southern before righting Navy's ship, and went back to the Peach State on Friday to lead Georgia Tech.

The 42-year-old Niumatalolo has been with Navy for 10 seasons over two stints, including the last six as assistant head coach and offensive line coach.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be named head football coach at the Naval Academy," said Niumatalolo. "I would like to thank Adm. Fowler and Mr. (Chet) Gladchuk for supporting me and I am excited about the future of the Navy football program. I am in the process of putting together a coaching staff that will give us every opportunity to continue the winning tradition at the Naval Academy."

According to the Navy athletic staff, Niumatalolo is the first Polynesian head coach in NCAA history.

The Midshipmen (8-4) face Utah in the Poinsettia Bowl at December 20.