The biggest offseason news of the high school football landscape. Legendary head coach Rudy Hubbard is stepping away from the sidelines. The man who spent the past 4 years restoring class and honor to the Rickards football program submitted a letter of resignation this week.

He went (12-25) on Tallahassee's southside but his impact on the Raiders football team can't be restricted to just wins and losses. Those around the school say Hubbard helped restore honor, class and strength to the program.

Coach Hubbard will obviously be more remembered for his College National Championship days (1978 & '79) with Florida A&M, but the pride, dignity and strength he helped instill at Rickards despite only winning 12 games in 4 seasons will not be forgotten.

Coach Hubbard will remain on staff at the high school but a search for his replacement will begin immediately.

Here's the press release from the Rickards High School Athletic Department:

"James S. Rickards High School dolefully accepted the resignation of legendary Coach Rudy Hubbard on Thursday, January 12, 2012. During his four year tenure, Coach Hubbard has led the Raiders Football team with honor and pride.

His accomplishments include bringing discipline, sportsmanship, and an improved team academic performance to the program as paramount life skills. He has also had several players recruited into Division I (FBS) and Division I (FCS), and Division II programs.

Coach Hubbard has also led the Raiders to three straight Nick Menacof-Rod Pigott BBFOA Sportsmanship Awards, as well as being a pivotal contributor to the 2009-10 FHSAA Floyd E. Lay Sunshine Cup All-Sports Award presented to the school.

His steadfast leadership and stalwart commitment has been a cornerstone of his tenure at James S. Rickards High School. His presence in our school and within the community has been truly noteworthy, as he reached out and compassionately touched many lives. There is no doubt that the next leader of our program will have major shoes to fill."