South Carolina strength coach Fitzgerald leaves

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina football strength coach Craig Fitzgerald has resigned after three seasons and will be replaced by assistant Joe Connolly.

The Gamecocks announced the change Friday, saying Fitzgerald left to pursue other opportunities.

Coach Steve Spurrier said the team would not miss a beat with Connolly in charge of the strength and conditioning program. Spurrier has often credited Fitzgerald and the strength staff for the Gamecocks’ achievements over the past few years.

The Gamecocks won the Southeastern Conference Eastern Division in 2010 then followed that by going 11-2 this past season. The 11 wins are a program record.