Feb 02, 2015 07:25 PM EST By J Baulkman, UniversityHerald Reporter

Menlo College in California will end their football program after a "careful and thorough evaluation of the economic and geographical realities related to sponsoring a small college football program," school officials announced.

The school, which competed as a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) independent, was the only member of the NAIA that sponsored a football program within the state of California, and one of just four NAIA programs within a 700 mile radius of the Menlo College campus in Atherton.

"This decision was not one made lightly, knowing full well the deep consequences it has on our student-athletes, their hardworking coaches and staff, and our dedicated supporters and alumni," Menlo College President Dr. Richard A. Moran said in a statement. "The Board of Trustees considered the issue carefully, but ultimately decided that the closure of football was in the best long-term interests of the college."

Players and coaches were recently notified by College officials that the program has ended. All current student-athletes will be allowed to retain their scholarships if they choose to remain at Menlo College, and those with remaining eligibility choosing to transfer will be eligible to play immediately. All coaching staff salaries will be honored through the 2014-15 academic year.

"This decision allows us to direct more resources to make our other sports stronger," said Keith Spataro, Menlo College Director of Athletics. "It will also benefit the College more broadly, as it allows for more funds and energy to be directed towards academics."

Menlo College has been the only non-NCAA Division I institution sponsoring football in the Bay Area since 2004. Menlo College will continue to sponsor 12 varsity athletic programs and ensure that members of the football team are offered a roster spot on other Menlo College teams where their skills and interests align. The College emphasized that they are committed to fully supporting those affected by this decision while they determine the best decision for the future.

See Now: Covert Team Inside Newsweek Revealed as Key Players in False Human Trafficking Lawsuit