ALAMOSA, Colo. (October 15, 2014) – Adams State University football head coach Marty Heaton has announced his retirement after the conclusion of the 2014 season.

Heaton's seventh season at the helm will be his last after accepting the position on Thanksgiving Day in 2007.

In his time with the program, Heaton has led the Grizzlies to a 37-35 (.513) record which included an 8-3 overall mark in 2012. Adams State posted a 6-3 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) record that season which was capped off by four consecutive victories over Western New Mexico University, Fort Lewis College, Colorado School of Mines, and Colorado Mesa University. Currently he holds a 29-29 (.500) record for conference contests.

"At this point in time I wanted to make it official." Heaton said. "It just felt like it was the right time."

Heaton took over a program that compiled a 2-9 record in 2007 before going on to post five wins during his first season as head coach at Adams State.  He claimed his first collegiate win on Oct. 4, 2008 in a 28-21 road win against Western New Mexico. From that point, the Grizzlies won four of their next five games to end the 2008 campaign.

"Marty has done a terrific job building a solid program the right way. His overall winning record is only surpassed by the success he's had off the field. He's been passionate about instilling academic performance and character in his student-athletes." Said ASU Athletic Director Larry Mortensen. "He's leaving a legacy of 35 years of on-and-off the field success for football in Colorado. Most people in the stands aren't aware of the time, energy and obstacles it took coach Heaton to succeed at ASU."

As an Adams State graduate, Heaton's time in Alamosa dates back to his playing days on the gridiron from 1978-81. As a defensive back for Adams State, Heaton was a 2-time All-RMAC selection while also earning NAIA Academic All-District and All-American recognition. After initially starting his coaching career in the Colorado high school ranks, Heaton returned to ASU in 2000 where he spent six seasons as the team's assistant head coach and defensive coordinator. His defensive vision was recognized after the 2004 campaign which saw Heaton's defensive unit named the NCAA Division II Defense of the Year by the College Sports Report.   

"As an administrator, it will be difficult to replace him." Mortensen added. "As to the timing, recruiting for next year is here. I know it was difficult for Marty and he wanted to be honest with the recruits. Right now he is committed to finishing the season strong with his players."

A national search for a football head coach will be forthcoming.