Gordon “Gordy” Elliott has called it a career as Auburn football coach.

Elliott, who has been in football as a player and a coach since 1962, led the Trojans to 14 winning campaigns in 16 seasons. Elliott directed Auburn to nine playoff appearances, reaching the state 3A semifinals in 2006 and the 4A semifinals in 2012.

“It’s been a long time doing this. It’s sad to quit, but it’s time to quit,” Elliott said while exchanging hugs and handshakes following Auburn’s 48-28 loss to Auburn Riverside last Friday night. “I had all these kinds of guys for 35 years. I’m going to miss that part.”

Elliott was honored during a pre-game ceremony with both teams forming a circle at midfield. Family and friends gathered for an emotional farewell.

The school will begin a search for a new coach.

The Trojans sent their coach out as a winner Thursday night, thumping Kentridge 35-0 at home to finish the season 6-4.

Elliott coached at Camas and Columbia River before taking the coaching job at his alma mater, the University of Puget Sound, where he coached from 1994-2001.

When Bob Jones stepped away from the sidelines in 2001, Elliott stepped in to coach Auburn, bringing his own style of play that included his jet sweep, spread offense.

“Gordy is an amazing coach. He has done a great job at Auburn High for the past 15 years,” said Auburn Mountainview coach Jared Gervais. “I never coached with Gordy, but I have always admired how detail oriented he is as a coach. His players are always extremely well prepared, and they play extremely fast. Players that know their jobs and execute at a high level are signs of good coaching. Gordy’s teams have always played fast and executed well.

“He will be missed in the NPSL (North Puget Sound League) and the Auburn School District.”

Added Auburn Riverside coach Bryant Thomas: “He’s a beloved guy in this community. His kids love him. They play hard for him.”