Miami has confirmed an unexpected development regarding Al Golden‘s coaching staff, although a little bit of intrigue has been thrown into the mix for good measure.
Multiple reports beginning late last night indicated that Micheal Barrow had decided to step down as the Hurricanes’ long-time linebackers coach. At least one report indicated that Barrow stepped down to tend to his sick mother.
The U, however, only acknowledged in a press release that Barrow was taking a sabbatical from coaching. In a statement, Barrow would only allow that “a very important family obligation” prompted his decision.
Also, from the sounds of the statement, it doesn’t appear that the coach will be headed back to his alma mater anytime soon.
“As a proud University of Miami graduate, former football player and coach, it is with a heavy heart that I announce I’m taking a sabbatical from coaching this season,” Barrow said. “This was an extremely tough decision to leave my dream job. However, I have a very important family obligation that requires my full attention, and I would not have had enough time to effectively fulfill my coaching duties.
“With the 2014 football season starting soon, please know that I am truly sorry if my decision brings the organization any inconveniences. I would like to thank President Shalala, Blake James, Al Golden, the coaching staff, UM football players and the entire UM family for seven great years. During this time, my professional career has grown and afforded me wonderful opportunities on and off the field. I have enjoyed working alongside some excellent colleagues and privilege to coach some great kids. I will never forget my tenure at the U and I’m looking forward to watching them this year. Go Canes!”
Golden had nothing but kind words for Barrow, who would’ve been entering his eight season at The U, and applauded his now-former assistant for putting his family above football.
“Coach Barrow has always put faith and family first in his life and this is clearly a time in his life where family needs him,” Golden said. “Micheal Barrow is the very definition of a Miami Hurricane - having given 11 years of class, service and leadership to the University and our community. We wish Micheal, Shelly and their children all the best as they enter a new chapter in their lives and we certainly hope Mike will return to coaching and mentoring young people in the near future.”
Because summer camp starts in just four days, it forced Golden to juggle his staff as well as his in-house football operations to fill the coaching void.
Hurlie Brown will move from running backs coach to take over Barrow’s role, with Miami high school coaching legend Tim “Ice” Harris promoted to fill Brown’s position. In one last move, Kevin Beard, a former Hurricane player, will join the program and replace Harris as assistant director of football operations.
(Photo credit: Miami athletics)