The Southeastern Conference revealed that longtime Commissioner Mike Slive will retire next year after a transforming 13-year run atop the league. He will officially depart on July 31, 2015 and announced that he is beginning treatment for a recurrence of prostate cancer. However, he will remain associated with the conference as a consultant for a period of four years. His run atop the league saw landmark television contracts including the launch of the SEC Network, seven consecutive Bowl Championship Series national titles in football and 67 national championships in 15 of its 21 sponsored sports during his tenure.

“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,” said Slive. “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.”