Thompson inherits a Berkmar program that has experienced a turnaround recently. After going 18 years without making the playoffs, and having only three winning seasons from 1975-2003, the Patriots have made the postseason three of the past four years. In 2007, they went 6-4.

Thompson will replace Wendell Early, who went 23-19 in his final four years at the school, after an 0-10 first season. Early resigned on Jan. 31 to pursue other opportunities.

“Coach Early did a great job at Berkmar,” Thompson said. “He started building consistency and put together a good staff there. I want to continue building consistency there. We’re going to have to work, and show these kids that we care about the program, and care about them.

“It’s a tough region (8-AAAAA), like Valdosta’s region is. If you want to succeed there, you’ve got to have a work ethic. Like Coach Gruhn used to say, ‘You’ve got to believe to achieve.’”

Thompson says his offense at Berkmar will base out of the wing-T, but will also include some I-formation and shotgun sets, a lot like Valdosta runs. He plans to copy Wildcat defensive coordinator Jeff Arnette’s attacking 4-3 defense.

Thompson admits he plans to keep up with Valdosta, even as he moves on to another program. He says the opportunity to be a Wildcat is something that will always be special to him.

“I want to thank the people of Valdosta for all they’ve done for me,” Thompson said. “Valdosta has become like a second home to me. I won’t ever forget the people of Valdosta, Ga. and how well I was treated here. I learned so much from Coach Tomberlin. This was the best coaching staff I’ve ever been a part of.

“There will always be a little black-and-gold in me.”