BELFAST — After 16 seasons of Chris Bartlett roaming the Belfast sidelines during football games, he will not be on the sidelines come next fall as Bartlett has opted to step down as the program’s head football coach, a role he has held since 2009.  

Bartlett has been coaching football for 23 seasons, including the last 16 with the Lions and noted the “first and most important reason” for stepping down is he wants to spend more time with his family. 

“Being a Head Football Coach takes a toll on a family,” Bartlett said. “[M]y wife is a single parent from June [to] November and she has done that for the 13 years we have been together. I miss a lot of my kid’s activities and I am not able to do things with them during the summer or fall because all of my time goes into football. It is time for me to be a dad and a husband.”

Aside from spending more time with family, Bartlett noted he simply needs a short break from coaching football. 

“I am not done coaching football, I will be back on the field in the future, but I do need a break,” Barlett said. “[T]he 23 years have been unreal and everyone should experience the experiences I have by coaching football.”

Bartlett also noted the team’s 0-8 record from this past season did not factor into his decision and noted the Lions were coming off an 0-8 season when he took the head coaching reigns.”

“I welcome the challenges and excitement of building up a program,” Bartlett said. 

Belfast Athletic Director Terry Kenniston had the following to say about Bartlett’s resignation: “Chris has been an asset to the football program at BAHS since his arrival. He has worked hard in the variety of positions he held. [He is] a dedicated member of our school community and worked in the best interest of the student-athletes.

We thank him for all his time and commitment over the years. He has touched the lives of many in a positive manner. We wish him well and hope he enjoys the additional time he will now have to spend with his family and the outdoor activities he loves.”

Reach George Harvey and the sports department at: sports@penbaypilot.com.