Softball: Statement from Coach Lotief – Wednesday’s Game at McNeese State Canceled

LAFAYETTE – Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns softball head coach Michael Lotief issued a statement on Monday regarding his present medical situation which caused him to miss last weekend’s Sun Belt Conference series at Texas State.
 
Associate head coach T.J. Hubbard read the statement to local media in attendance at Monday’s regularly scheduled media luncheon.
 
Hubbard will guide the team during Lotief’s absence. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
 
We ask that you respect his privacy during this time.
  
STATEMENT FROM MICHAEL LOTIEF ON PRESENT MEDICAL SITUATION:
"This has gone on the last five to six months – it has gotten worse with infections. Throughout it all I never missed a day, or a practice. Instead, even worked extra days to help prepare the team and the pitchers.
 
Lately the health issues have increased, making it hard for me to swallow and even talk.  This condition has limited me to the "bench", but I am still there everyday, hoping and fighting to beat it.
 
This past week, I took a turn for the worse.  Surgery revealed a very inflamed esophagus that required immediate attention from a specialist.  In the past week I have spent four days in the hospital, making it impossible for me to travel and attend practice.
 
I know how tough it is on our team, but they are strong and tough. Most importantly they are leaders. 
 
I appreciate everyone’s prayers, love and support, but right now please help these kids get through a tough situation. 
 
We need our Ragin’ Cajun Fans, the best softball fans in the country, to support these kids and help them get through this. 
 
And to my players, I love you. Keep competing and playing free, stay together and just know all those bombs you hit this weekend made me smile!"
 

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LAFAYETTE – Wednesday’s softball game featuring Louisiana and McNeese State in Lake Charles has been canceled, both athletic departments announced Monday.

 

 

 

Officials with the Ragin’ Cajuns Athletics Department determined it to be in the best interest of student-athlete welfare, in light of the present medical condition of Louisiana softball head coach Michael Lotief, to not travel this week.

 

 

 

The two programs will work to schedule a contest in Lake Charles early next season.

 

 

 

The Ragin’ Cajuns (27-5, 12-3 Sun Belt) return to Lamson Park on Good Friday (April 3) to begin a three-game Sun Belt series with Georgia State (23-10, 5-4 Sun Belt). Friday’s single game is set for 5 p.m., and the series-closing doubleheader is scheduled for 12 p.m., on Saturday.

 

 

 

#GeauxCajuns

 

 

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