SAN JOSE, Calif. — Dick Tomey created countless long-term relationships during his 29 years as a head football coach.

The Gold Room in the Simpkins Center was overflowing yesterday with his latest friends, colleagues and players when Tomey announced he was retiring from coaching, effective following San Jose State's game against Louisiana Tech on Dec. 5.

The 71-year-old coach said this was an opportunity for he and his wife, Nanci Kincaid, to "open a new chapter."

"We have a lot of responsibilities left on the Mainland, including six grandchildren to visit, but effectively we will be going back to the place we love the most and that's Hawai'i," said Tomey.

He coached Hawai'i (1977-86), Arizona and San Jose State to bowl games, with the Spartans winning the 2006 New Mexico Bowl in his second year.

With three games remaining he has an overall record of 182-143-7.

The Spartans (1-8) host Hawai'i (4-6) Saturday in a Western Athletic Conference game.