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 is presently teacher in the Bridgewater-Raynham school system and the owner/president of Dighton Stove Shop. He is also an assistant football coach with the B-R Trojans. He, his wife Nancy, and four children are long-time residents of Bridgewater, MA.