Richard Florence was the starting offensive tackle for the Football Bears from 1971-74. In 1973 and 1974 he was named to the New England Football Conference All-Star team and captained the Bears in 1974. Following his playing career, Rich became an assistant coach at Bridgewater State (1977-86, 88-93) and was instrumental in the success of the Bears during the late 1980's and early 90's as a stellar offensive line coach. 

Rich has been a long time member of the Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School District, serving as a teacher, coach, and school administrator, and presently he is the Principal of the Raynham Middle School. He, his wife, Nancy, and four children are long-time residents of Bridgewater, MA.