Coconino News

After a career spanning 33 years in collegiate athletics administration, Mike Marlow, Northern Arizona University's vice president for intercollegiate athletics, has announced his retirement. Marlow's tenure at NAU began on December 13, 2017, and will conclude on February 28, 2025.

Marlow was recognized as the FCS Athletic Director of the Year for the 2021-22 season. During his leadership, NAU Athletics achieved significant success both in competition and academics. The department claimed four NCAA Division I championships and won 62 regular season and conference tournament championships. Additionally, over $50 million was invested in facility enhancements under his guidance.

"College athletics has afforded me and my family with many positive memories and friendships that will endure the rest of our lives," Marlow stated. He expressed gratitude towards those he worked with at NAU: "Thanks to these people we have found a home in Flagstaff after 33 years and five zip codes."

NAU President José Luis Cruz Rivera praised Marlow's contributions: "Under Mike Marlow's leadership, NAU Athletics has reached new heights...Mike will be missed, but he has set a strong foundation for our future."

Among Marlow's notable achievements are significant improvements to athletic facilities such as the Student-Athlete High Performance Center and securing substantial fundraising contributions. In recent years, fundraising efforts surpassed expectations with several million-dollar gifts.

Marlow played a crucial role in renewing NAU's Adidas apparel contract shortly after joining the university. This agreement became one of the most lucrative within the Big Sky Conference.

In addition to his accomplishments at NAU, Marlow served at other institutions including Washington State University and the University of Oregon. At WSU, he was instrumental in hiring Coach Mike Leach who led their football program to unprecedented success.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Marlow noted that he had been "daydreaming of life after a career in college athletics." His departure marks the end of an era characterized by growth and achievement for NAU Athletics.