FITCHBURG — Fitchburg State University athletic director Sue Lauder announced Tuesday that head football coach Patrick Haverty has resigned for personal reasons. Assistant coach Jim McGuire has assumed the interim head coach title and a national search for the position will begin in the spring.

“Coach Haverty taught the players under his guidance that football is more than a game, it is an opportunity to join a family, learn hard work and discipline, and get the most out of themselves,” said Lauder. “We wish Pat and his family the very best.”

Haverty posted a career coaching record of 62-59 (.512) over his 12 seasons (2002-2007, 2011-2018) at the helm of the Falcons football program. With those 62 career coaching victories, he ranks first among all Fitchburg State football head coaches in wins. The Falcons finished with a 3-7 record last season, including a 2-6 record in the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Haverty led the Falcons to a pair of NEFC Bogan Division titles in 2004 and 2005, and to three ECAC Division 3 Bowl bids in 2004, 2005 and 2015.

Haverty will continue working at Fitchburg State University as the recruiting coordinator.

“I talked to my staff and players and notified them that I have decided to resign as Fitchburg State University head football coach,” Haverty said. “It was a very difficult decision for me to make, I have devoted my life to coaching this game and it has been a great journey. I’d like to thank the entire FSU community for the support I have received over the years.”

McGuire, assistant coach for running backs and special teams, has been part of the Falcons’ staff for 12 seasons. He will assume all responsibilities of head coach until the position is filled.