A fiber optic connector includes a housing having proximal and distal ends and a latch for securing the fiber optic connector to an adapter housing. A ferrule forms an optical connection with a second fiber optic connector. The ferrule is disposed distally of the housing. A spring holder operatively couples the ferrule to the housing. The spring holder is movable relative to at least one of the housing and the ferrule to enable the ferrule to move proximally and distally relative to the housing. A spring biases the ferrule in a distal direction away from the housing. The spring is mounted on the spring holder.