Attleboro High School announced Thursday afternoon that it has hired Michael Strachan as its new coach for the varsity football team. He replaces Kevin Deschenes, who resigned in November after 12 seasons at the helm.

Strachan is a 1986 graduate of North Attleboro High School and played college football at Stonehill College, where he was named All-Conference in 1989. A press release from AHS states his head coaching experience includes Framingham State and the Swedish national team. He also had an internship with the New England Patriots.

"Coach Strachan brings the principles that our Blue Pride community is built upon," said AHS principal Bill Runey, according to the release. "He espouses our philosophy that our student-athletes are personally responsible for their success as integral members of the city of Attleboro.  Additionally, he understands our traditions and the rivalries that come with them."

Strachan was introduced Thursday to the 2013 captains and the football candidates for the upcoming season. He is taking over a team that last season started strong with a 4-0 record, but then lost the remaining seven games.

"We welcome coach Strachan to AHS and look forward to working with him," said AHS athletics director Mark Houle, according to the release. "Coach Strachan will be a valuable asset both personally and professionally for our athletic program. His vision and plan will have a positive impact on our players, football program and our school community."