SEC commissioner Mike Slive announces retirement

SEC commissioner Mike Slive announced plans to retire next year amid health concerns.

Slive, who has been the conference commissioner for 13 years, said he is currently undergoing treatment for a recurrence of prostate cancer, which was first diagnosed in the late 1990s.

Slive’s official last day is July 31, 2015.

"I have been blessed in more ways than I can count and I will have as much passion for this job on my last day as I did on my first," Slive said in a statement released by the SEC. "I consider my health situation a temporary detour in a remarkable road that has allowed me to meet amazing people, experience incredible events and celebrate historic victories. I will relish my final year in this position and look forward to being the biggest fan of the SEC for many years to come."

Slive’s cancer was discovered during a surgical procedure on his back last August. He said his prognosis is good and that he plans to carry out his duties as commissioner for the remainder of the year while he battles the disease.

Slive will serve as a consultant for the conference for four years following his retirement.

During Slive’s tenure, the SEC has become the most dominant football conference in the country. It has won eight national titles, including seven in a row, during his tenure. He was instrumental in helping form the College Football Playoff and, with the addition of the SEC Network, the SEC has become one of the most profitable conferences in the country.

The SEC will begin a search for Slive’s replacement immediately.

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