Hanover, NH -- Dartmouth University fired head football coach John Lyons on Tuesday. The Big Green finished just 1-9 this season, marking the worst record in school history.

Lyons, who had one year remaining on his contract, spent 13 seasons at the school and compiled an overall record of 60-68-1, including a 43-50-1 mark versus Ivy League opponents.

"As difficult a decision as this was, it is a good time to make this move in order to change the direction of the program," said director of athletics Josie Harper. "John has had his share of success here and we appreciate all that he has done for the college, but, in the larger picture, we feel that this is in the best interest of Dartmouth football at this time."

Lyons guided Dartmouth to a pair of Ivy League titles, three runner-up finishes and an unblemished 10-0 season in 1996. It was the school's first perfect campaign in 26 years.

The 52-year-old Lyons joined the Dartmouth staff in 1988 as defensive coordinator and coach of the defensive backs.