YARMOUTH — North Yarmouth Academy didn’t have to go far to find a coach for its boys’ hockey team.

Eric Graham, a native of North Berwick who played four seasons at the University of Southern Maine, was named last Friday to replace Brett Barrett as head coach after spending one season as the assistant coach.

“Coach Graham’s background, playing experience and demonstrated work ethic make him an excellent fit to lead the boys’ hockey program,” said NYA Athletic Director Mike Dutton in a press release.

The Panthers play in a 60-team league sanctioned by New England Prep School Athletic Council.

“It’s a level of play that is very crucial in my development,” said Graham, a defenseman who played at Berwick Academy and spent two seasons with the Portland Junior Pirates before going to USM. “It’s a level (of play) I kind of had my eyes on for years. It’s a great opportunity for a young coach who is trying to make his mark.”

The NYA job became vacant when Barrett left to take a position with the Saco-based Junior Pirates.

The search will continue to find a new assistant coach. School officials said Adam Nicholas will have an expanded role as NYA’s director of player development and skill.

Graham, 27, is the nephew of former UMaine and Portland Pirates assistant coach Jay Leach and the cousin of Albany Devils defenseman Jay Leach, who once played for the Pirates.

“I guess you could say hockey is in my genes,” he said. “My mother has five brothers and they played and coached hockey.”

Graham also serves as assistant video coach for the Portland Pirates.

Staff Writer Paul Betit can be contacted at 791-6424 or at: pbetit@pressherald.com

Twitter: PaulBetitPPH