ONEONTA, N.Y. – Hartwick College Head Football Coach Mark Carr has announced his retirement from coaching effective Dec. 31, 2024.

Carr's association with Hartwick College spans over three decades, beginning in 1993 as the offensive coordinator and later as assistant head coach. In 2002, he took on the mantle of head coach, leading the football program with unwavering dedication and passion. Under his guidance, the team achieved significant milestones, including the 2007 Empire 8 Conference title and the program's first appearance in the NCAA Division III playoffs.
 
Beyond the accolades, Carr's commitment to his student-athletes and the broader Hartwick community has been exemplary. His leadership has not only fostered athletic excellence but also personal growth among the players, instilling values of teamwork, perseverance, and integrity. Carr's influence has extended beyond the football field, positively impacting countless lives within our community.
 
Carr will transition into a full-time role in the admissions office on Jan. 1, 2025, where he will continue his long-standing contributions to Hartwick College by helping attract talented students to Oyaron Hill.
 
"I am very grateful for the opportunity that I was provided to coach our football team over the past 30-plus years," remarked Carr. "I am also very excited to continue to serve Hartwick College in my new capacity within the admissions office. I would like to thank the Hartwick administration for their support throughout all of these years, including our current president, Jim Mullen, Vice President Bryan Gross, Executive Director of Athletics Paul Vecchio and Associate Director of Athletics Betty Powell."
 
Carr added, "I would also like to thank all our players and coaches, past and present, for their commitment and dedication to our football team and College. I will be forever grateful for the relationships that I have developed with so many of them." 

Executive Director of Athletics Paul Vecchio expressed his appreciation for Carr, saying, "I am deeply grateful to Coach Carr for his steadfast leadership of our football program for these past 23 years and am delighted that he will continue to be a part of Hartwick College in a role that he has excelled in. His love of Hartwick is boundless and his new role will allow him to continue to bring talented students to Oyaron Hill."

A national search for the next head football coach at Hartwick will begin immediately. Current Associate Head Coach Mark Theophel '10 will assume the role of interim head football coach on Jan. 1, 2025. Theophel has been a part of the Hawks' staff for the past ten years.
 
About Hartwick College:
 
Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.