Sunday, June 4, 2017

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes, coaches, and administrators. Collectively, it is these individuals who make the GNAC one of the top NCAA Division II athletic conferences in the nation.

Name: Mike Larabee
Sport: Softball
School: Central Washington University
Hometown: Ellensburg, Wash. 

College(s) Attended: Washington State University

College Majors & Degree(s): B.S. Physical Education; M.S. Exercise Science

Why Did You Become A Coach? I love to teach and it gives me the opportunity to be a positive male role model for our athletes. I have a love for athletics in general.

Who Has Influenced You The Most As A Coach – Either As An Inspiration, As A Mentor Or Philosophically? I really think John Wooden and Pete Carroll have influenced me the most. Several great mentors who helped me understand the impact I can have as a coach were Jon Christopher, Lief Anderson, Tim Johnson and Bill Burnett. They were leaders of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes or Athletes in Action.

Biggest Obstacle Overcome As A Coach: Being the same coach on game day as I am during the practice week.

What Does Division II Mean To You? I've never been too caught up regarding the different levels of collegiate athletics. I feel the exact same way after a loss or win whether I'm coaching in the SEC, the Big Ten or the GNAC. I feel our conference and region are very competitive and you better bring your "A" game at all times!

Extracurricular Activities: I enjoy attending a variety of sports at CWU. I love to mountain bike, go to movies and workout. I also enjoy going to Mariners games.

Best Advice You’d Give To Student-Athletes: Always compete in every area of your life! Be accountable and be uncommon!

If I Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be And Why? John Wooden and Pete Carroll. I would pick their brains and continue to try and become a better teacher and coach.

Favorite Sports Team: Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Mariners.

Favorite Athlete: Russell Wilson. He has a great work ethic, is a great teammate, and makes everyone around him better.

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: Winning the GNAC regular season and tournament championship in 2016 and being the first GNAC team to advance to a NCAA Super Regional.