Midland University's Jef Field announced Friday he will be retiring as head baseball coach after an 18-year Midland career. He will continue at the university as a full-time educator working to strengthen the institution's Human Performance Management department.

With a head coaching career spanning nearly two decades, Field's name has become synonymous with Midland Baseball. A three-time Conference Coach of the Year honoree, he has led the Warriors to seven conference titles, including three consecutive regional berths in the 90's and a 2006 championship capped by a school-best 42-15 season record.

"Jef has built a baseball program here that is truly something special," said Dr. Ben Sasse, President of Midland University. "He has brought in championships and success on the field, but more importantly, he has instilled lasting lessons of character within the young adults he has led."

Field will continue at Midland as a professor of the Health and Human Performance Department. He will be a staple figure as the university broadens and enhances several performance-driven degrees.

"We are thrilled to have Coach Field at the forefront of academic advancement," said Dr. Steve Bullock, Vice President of Academic Affairs. "I know first-hand how devoted he is to preparing students with the skills to be life-long achievers."

The university will be announcing a national search for the next Midland baseball coach. Coach Field will have a key role in the university's selection process.