MONROE—Brad Hoover, who was the starting fullback for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League for nine years, has a new position.

According to the Charlotte Observer, the 36-year-old Hoover has been named as head football coach at Union Academy, which plays football in the NCHSAA in the 1-A classification.

Hoover, a former star at Ledford High School, is in his first coaching position. He had worked in business after retiring from the NFL.