MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Two weeks after announcing his plans to retire from his post as head coach of the Fairmont Senior boys basketball program, Dave Retton has informed school administration that he will remain the leader of the Polar Bears. Preseason practices for Retton’s 30th season leading FSHS will begin in November.
Retton cited positive news regarding his health as his reason to return to the sidelines this winter.
FSHS principal James Green posted the following on the school’s Facebook page Thursday (Oct. 29) morning.
“Today, after many discussions, I have received the following letter from Coach David Retton: It was with great pride that I am no longer retiring from coaching basketball at Fairmont Senior High School. My return to health allows me to coach and give 100 percent to the Polar Bear basketball program. I look forward to continuing the upward trajectory of my health as we work to meet the high standards of Fairmont Senior High School. We are excited for the work that lies ahead and will continue to strive for excellence in the classroom and on the basketball court.”
Original story from Friday, October 16:
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Dave Retton is retiring after a highly-successful, three-decade run leading the Fairmont Senior boys basketball program. Retton was named the head coach of the Polar Bears in 1997 and his teams were consistent contenders in Class AAA and Class AA for the duration of his tenure.
FSHS principal James Green posted the following on the school’s Facebook page Friday (Oct. 16) morning.
“Yesterday I received and accepted a letter of retirement from Head Boys Basketball Coach David Retton. As he always does, Coach Retton’s letter focused on the team, players and all those who have supported him in his years with the program. Coach Retton also had the opportunity to speak with the team and coaches present at their Thursday workout to tell them of his retirement personally. We truly appreciate and honor the exceptional program Coach Retton has created for our boys basketball team. Coach Retton not only provided basketball instruction, he had an even greater influence on the lives of the young men who went on to become great men. Some moved on to do great things in basketball, but many more moved on to do great things in life. Thank you Coach Retton.”
Retton led the Polar Bears to four state championships in a seven-year span from 2016 to 2023, winning a pair of back-to-back championships. FSHS defeated Poca, 55-37 to win the 2016 Class AA title. A year later, the Polar Bears knocked off Chapmanville, 59-54 in the final.
The Polar Bears defeated Shady Spring in Class AAA title games in 2022 and 2023. Retton’s teams also finished as state runners-up in 1998, 2013, 2015, 2018, 2019 and 2024. They also qualified for state tournaments in 2006, 2007, 2012, 2021 and 2025.