The college football community is mourning the loss of Shawn Clark, former Appalachian State head coach and current UCF offensive line coach, who passed away Sunday at the age of 50. Clark’s passing has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from coaches, players, and fans alike, highlighting the profound impact he had on those around him.
Lincoln Riley Pays Tribute to Shawn Clark
Soon after the news broke, Lincoln Riley, head coach of the USC Trojans, shared his condolences on Instagram. Riley posted a photo of Clark with the simple yet powerful message: “RIP Coach Clark”
Riley’s tribute underscores the respect and admiration he had for Clark, who was known not only for his coaching acumen but also for his ability to connect with players and fellow coaches on a personal level.
Joey Aguilar’s Emotional Message
Quarterback Joey Aguilar also took to Instagram to honor Clark’s legacy, writing: “Can’t thank you enough coach! Forever love”
Aguilar’s message reflects the deep relationships Clark fostered with his players, mentoring them both on and off the field. For many, Clark’s influence went beyond X’s and O’s, leaving a lasting mark on their personal and professional lives.
Coaches Express Condolences
Other notable figures in college football have shared their condolences. Brent Brennan, head coach at San Jose State, began his weekly press conference by extending sympathies to UCF and Clark’s family, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the coaching community.
Brent Brennan starts his weekly press conference sending condolences to UCF and the family of offensive line coach Shawn Clark who recently passed away.
— Justin Spears (@JustinESports) September 22, 2025
Tony Trisciani expressed his grief, noting Clark’s ability to balance the demands of Division 1 football while still keeping the joy in the game. “The news of Shawn Clark’s passing hit hard today,” he shared on social media. “My deepest sympathies and prayers are with Jonelle, Giana, Braxton, and all who loved Shawn.”
The news of Shawn Clark’s passing hit hard today. He had a special way of balancing the pressures of Division I football while still keeping the joy in the game. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with Jonelle, Giana, Braxton, and all who loved Shawn. This video is Shawn… pic.twitter.com/fH3cKp5vWF
— Tony Trisciani (@TonyTrisciani) September 22, 2025
Pat Narduzzi, Pittsburgh Panthers head coach, also paid tribute by saying, “I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Shawn Clark. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and every coach and player who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. 🙏🏽”
I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Shawn Clark. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and every coach and player who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. 🙏🏽 https://t.co/SbmbxyBCay
— Pat Narduzzi (@CoachDuzzPittFB) September 22, 2025
These messages highlight the profound respect Clark commanded throughout the college football community, reflecting his positive influence both on and off the field.
Shawn Clark’s Career and Legacy
Clark’s career in football was deeply intertwined with Appalachian State. He played as an offensive lineman from 1994 to 1998 before returning to the school in 2016 as offensive line coach and co-offensive coordinator. Following the 2019 season, he was promoted to head coach, guiding the Mountaineers to a 40-24 record through 2024.
This season, Clark joined UCF as offensive line coach, bringing his expertise and leadership to a new program. His sudden passing, after a recent hospitalization for a medical emergency, has left a significant void in the college football landscape.
Shawn Clark will be remembered not only for his accomplishments on the field but also for the personal connections he built throughout his career. Coaches like Lincoln Riley and Joey Aguilar, along with countless others, have highlighted Clark’s impact as a mentor, friend, and leader.
His legacy will live on in the players he coached and the colleagues he inspired, ensuring that his contributions to college football will not be forgotten.
