UPDATED: Chelmsford's Winningest Football Coach Resigns

The man who holds the record for most wins as head football coach at Chelmsford High School has announced his resignation.

Bruce Rich, who has served as the Lions’ football coach since 1996, stepped down Thursday from his position with the team.

“We believe this to be a positive move for both Bruce and the program,” Chelmsford Athletic Director Scott Moreau said in a statement, adding that the change would allow Rich to spend more time with his family.

In his 20 seasons at the helm, Rich earned enough wins -- 144 -- to become the winningest coach in the program’s history, according to The Boston Herald.

Moreau noted in his statement that ”the record for CHS Football under [Rich’s] direction is astonishing, winning multiple league championships as well as a state championship.”

Rich will continue to serve as the school’s varsity wrestling coach, according to the Lowell Sun.