In what he described as an emotional decision, Marvin "Stump" Martin is leaving his post as Athletic Director for the City of Rossville to become the first Director of Parks and Recreation in East Ridge, Tenn.

"I have cried and prayed relentlessly about this," said Martin, who began is his position on Wednesday. "I will miss the kids, coaches, and volunteers at Rossville that have become a part of my family and that helped us do great things that we took a lot of pride in. The Rossville city government gave me a chance to do something special and they supported me so we could do just that."

Martin took the job with Rossville in 2008. Prior to that, he was a reporter/sports writer for the Chattanooga Times Free Press for 20 years and a past sports editor for the Catoosa County News.

He has served as managing editor for Tennessee Football Magazine, hosted a sports radio show on WDEF 1370-AM and ESPN 105.1 in Chattanooga, and continues to host the "Stump on Sports" television show on UCTV, which was been on the air for more than 25 years.

East Ridge City Manager Tim Gobble said that he and the city were proud to have Martin on their staff.

"Stump Martin is a well-known area sports enthusiast, director and promoter," Gobble said. "He has been instrumental in developing young people throughout the area not only in athletics, but in life. He has developed an outstanding reputation for enhancing the quality of people’s lives through involvement and support on all levels of sports and recreation.

"He has a wealth of experience and involvement in local sports leagues and events, and we are proud to have him join the city of East Ridge to work with all volunteers, parents, coaches, and players to progress the city’s athletic programs and facilities forward and to new heights. I am confident in his abilities and look forward to working with him."

Martin will oversee the operations, personnel and budget for the East Ridge Parks and Recreation Department, manage and coordinate both select and recreational sports leagues, and bring in and develop both sports and non-sports related events to the city's facilities at Camp Jordan and the East Ridge Community Center, including concerts, sports clinics, tournaments, and other events.

"This is bigger than I imagined, but everyone knows I love a challenge," Martin said. "I truly believe this is God's blessing, and with His blessing, I'll find the strength, energy, and determination to make it happen."

Martin will continue to work for both cities until March 2 to help Rossville transition to a new Athletic Director.

"I think there are going to be a lot of candidates and a lot of good candidates for the job," he said. "And I'll always be just a phone call away. I may be leaving a job and going to a new city, but I will always 'Be Rossville'."