HATTIESBURG — A familiar face takes over at the helm of the Southern Miss baseball program as director of athletics Richard Giannini announced today that Scott Berry has been promoted to the head coaching position.

Berry replaces Corky Palmer, who announced his retirement as the Golden Eagles’ coach last week after 12 seasons leading the Southern Miss baseball team. Berry’s promotion is pending approval by the board of trustees.

Berry has been Palmer’s right-hand man for the last nine seasons at Southern Miss, and it is no coincidence that the school is in the midst of the most successful run in school history advancing to six consecutive NCAA regionals.

“We have always had great respect for Scott Berry as a baseball coach, but more importantly his impeccable character,” Giannini said. “After talking with dozens of current and former players, donors and dugout club members, it is obvious he is the person to take over for Coach Palmer.

“He has been a big part of the six consecutive NCAA regional appearances and I know his leadership will continue that tradition of excellence and success.”

The former Meridian Community College head coach,  came to Southern Miss prior to the 2001 season. Since he joined the staff, the Golden Eagles have earned a 346-197 (.637) record while advancing to NCAA postseason play six times. The team also won the Conference USA Championship in 2003.

In his tenure at Southern Miss, Berry’s main responsibility has been working with the pitching staff.