MIAMI — On Saturday, Mike Larabee announced his resignation from his position as head coach of the FIU softball team due to a diagnosis of blood cancer.


This season, which kicks off on February 6, will proceed without Larabee, who is in his fourth year leading the Panthers. The team will be temporarily managed by associate head coach Mike Meyers during his absence.


The university revealed that Larabee has been diagnosed with myelofibrosis, a type of chronic leukemia that is classified as a rare cancer impacting the bone marrow, as stated by the Mayo Clinic.


“I have full confidence in Mike Meyers to lead this team,” Larabee remarked. “Having worked together for 14 years, he has an in-depth understanding of our strategy and systems.”


With 18 seasons of experience as a head coach at both Division I and II levels, Larabee has previously led teams at institutions such as Arkansas, Wright State, and Central Washington before taking the helm at FIU.


FIU’s athletic director Scott Carr expressed unwavering support for Larabee, stating, “Our thoughts are with him as he prioritizes his health. We believe he can win this fight, and he will have our unwavering support throughout this journey.”


Larabee has set his sights on making a comeback to the Panthers by the fall season. Last year, the FIU squad finished with a record of 21 wins and 29 losses, including a conference record of 8-16 in Conference USA.