Updated

Charleston, SC (SportsNetwork.com) - Kevin Higgins has stepped down as the head football coach at The Citadel to take a position at Wake Forest.

Higgins will be the assistant head coach and wide receivers coach for the Demon Deacons under Dave Clawson, who was hired as head coach at Wake Forest on Dec. 12.

"While I am sorry to see Kevin leave The Citadel, I wish him and his family all the best as he embarks on this new chapter of his life and career," The Citadel athletic director Larry Leckonby said. "He has been an outstanding coach and role model for his players during his time here as well as a true ambassador for The Citadel, its athletic department and football program."

Higgins had spent the last nine seasons at The Citadel, where he compiled a 43-58 overall record. He was named the Southern Conference Coach of the Year following the 2012 season, the first Bulldog mentor to earn that title since 1990.

"I am so thankful for the nine seasons at The Citadel," said Higgins. "I have never in my life been associated with so many loyal and supportive alums as we have at The Citadel."

A national search for Higgins' successor will begin immediately.