SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - After more than three decades leading UC Santa Barbara Sports Medicine, Leroy Heu has announced his retirement from UCSB. His tenure has been defined by his dedication, caring spirit and service to student-athletes and staff.
 
Heu has worked with every sport in the UC Santa Barbara Athletics portfolio, currently spanning 20 programs, as well as made a lasting legacy on the national and international athletics stage.
 
"Leroy's caring spirit and service mindset have defined his career and his impact within our Gaucho community and beyond is massive," said Arnhold Director of Athletics Kelly Barksy. "I am deeply grateful to Leroy and recognize his dedication, service and countless hours spent caring for the health and well-being of others. Thank you, Leroy!"
 
"I've been fortunate to work with so many great people at UCSB over the years, and Leroy Heu is at the top of that list," said men's volleyball head coach Rick Macglaughlin. "He has helped our program in so many ways and given us the highest level of athletic training possible. But he's been much more than just a trainer. He's been a huge part of our coaching staff, giving all of our athletes, coaches, and me a different avenue for advice and support. He's given everything he has to UCSB and its student-athletes. He's the best trainer, coworker, and most importantly, best friend I could ever ask for. I can't think of anyone more deserving of a great retirement."
 
Over his legendary 40-plus year career in sports medicine, Leroy has also worked for San Jose State, the University of Hawaii and the San Francisco 49ers, among others. He also served as the Head Athletic Trainer for the USA Delegation Medical Staff at the World University Games in Belgrade, Serbia, in 2009.  He repeated this role for the games in Shenzhen, China, in 2011; in Kazan, Russia, in 2013; and in Gwangju, South Korea, in 2015.  He was also a member of the USA Medical Team for the 2013 Winter World University Games in Trentino, Italy.

Leroy is a longtime member of the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) and the Far Western Athletic Trainers Association. Last month, Leroy was profiled by NATA for his four decades of service.