CHS Football Excited for Upcoming Season, Despite Realignment Concerns

Bruce Rich may not like where his team was placed during this year’s realignment. But that doesn’t change that the fact that he’s thrilled with where the Lions will be on August 19.

The Chelmsford High School football coach is preparing for the 2013 football season after an offseason that saw the Lions moved into Division 1 North by the MIAA’s realignment plans.

Rich said the decision, which was voted on by coaches this winter, was made because of Chelmsford’s gridiron success, not because of its school size. According to the coach, the size of the Lions’ program should instead have allotted them in Division 2.

Chelmsford appealed its placement, but was denied by the MIAA.

“We were taken aback by the fact that they put us in Division 1,” said Rich. “It looks like we’ll have to play with the big boys. But once we get on the field, it’s going to be business as usual.”

The MIAA realignment goal was aimed at forming more of a true state championship game for each division, though Rich said he believes money played a big part in the change as well.

One of the downfalls of the change is that many teams, including Chelmsford, will play their Thanksgiving rival twice during the season. In addition to taking on Billerica on Turkey Day, the Lions will also play the Division 2 foe during the regular season.

“I’m not a fan of the playoff system. I liked the format the way it was,” said Rich. “Is it a more pure state championship? Sure. But the whole process of getting there is not that good. There are too many negatives.”

Despite the realignment concerns, Rich said he is excited for his team to hit the practice field on August 19. The mentor said he believes his team has the skills on both sides of the ball to compete with the top teams in the state.

“We think we have all the ingredients,” said Rich. “We’ll compete with the Catholic schools and Everett, and do the best we can.”

What do you think about the realignment changes? Do you believe Chelmsford should be in Division 1 or Division 2? What are your predictions for the upcoming season for the Lions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.