San Antonio Central Catholic High School coach Mike Santiago has passed away following a battle with cancer, the school announced on Thursday. He spent the previous six years as head coach of the Buttons after a long career at the collegiate level.

In May 2007, Santiago was named the first head coach in UIW program history. He led the Cardinals to a 10-18 overall record and a 5-10 record in the Lone Star Conference.

The veteran head coach began his coaching career as an assistant at Lamar in 1978. He returned to Texas when he accepted a position at Texas State following stints at North Carolina State, Northern Arizona, and Western Michigan. After eight years at McNeese, Santiago received his first head coaching job at Stephen F. Austin.

During Santiago's tenure, the Lumberjacks were 39-27 overall and 21-15 in the Southland Conference.

He took a break from coaching collegiately following his departure from UIW and returned to the sideline as head coach at Central Catholic in 2017. 

“Coach Santiago passed away peacefully in his home early this morning, surrounded by his family,” Central Catholic President Jason Longoria said in a statement. “Coach Santiago cared deeply for all his players and the Central Catholic football program. He leaves a legacy of passion and care for every player he had the privilege of coaching. His love for a tradition of excellence is something to be admired by all. He will be missed dearly by all. May a perpetual light shine upon him.”

According to the statement, details regarding services for Santiago will be shared with the Central Catholic community when available.