Shawn Clark, the offensive line coach for the University of Central Florida (UCF) football team, passed away on Sunday at the age of 50. His sudden death has left the sports world in shock and sadness, especially among his family, friends, former teammates, and players who admired him deeply.

Clark was hospitalized on September 9 after a medical emergency. At first, reports said his condition was stable, but his health later took a turn for the worse. Nearly two weeks after the emergency, he passed away in the hospital surrounded by his loved ones.

The news was officially confirmed by UCF, where Clark had only recently started his new role as offensive line coach for the 2025 football season.

Early Life and Playing Career

Shawn Clark was born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1974. From an early age, he loved sports, especially football. His big size and strength made him a natural fit for the game, and he quickly developed into a strong offensive lineman during his high school years.

His talent earned him a chance to play college football at Appalachian State University, where he became one of the best players in the school’s history.

At Appalachian State, Clark’s performance on the field stood out. He was a two-time All-American, an award given to the best college players in the country. He also made the all-conference team three times, proving he was not just good for one season but consistently excellent.

His teammates and coaches admired his leadership, discipline, and the way he protected his quarterback. Even as a young player, people noticed he cared about others, always helping younger players adjust and improve.

Beginning of a Coaching Journey

After his successful playing career, Clark knew he wanted to stay in football. But instead of trying to play professionally, he chose the path of coaching.

In 2001, he got his first job as a graduate assistant coach at the University of Louisville. A graduate assistant is usually the starting role for young coaches, where they help with practice, training, and video analysis.

From there, Clark built his career step by step. He worked at different colleges, including:

• Eastern Kentucky University – where he coached the offensive line.
• Purdue University – one of the top programs in the Big Ten Conference.
• Kent State University – where he continued to guide young offensive linemen.

Through these jobs, Clark earned a reputation as a hard worker who connected well with his players. Many athletes said he treated them like family and helped them both on and off the field.

Returning to Appalachian State

In 2016, Clark returned to his alma mater, Appalachian State University, as an assistant coach. For him, this was more than just another job—it was a homecoming. He had once worn the team’s jersey as a player, and now he was back to help the next generation.

In December 2019, Appalachian State’s head coach at the time, Eli Drinkwitz, left the program. Clark was promoted to head coach, taking over one of the most successful mid-major football programs in the country.

Record as Head Coach

Clark led Appalachian State as head coach from 2020 to 2024. During this time, his teams played tough schedules and competed in many important games. His overall record was 40 wins and 24 losses.

Highlights of his coaching career at Appalachian State include:

Bowl Game Success: His teams won three out of four bowl games, including the 2023 Cure Bowl, which was especially memorable because it was played at UCF’s stadium, the place where Clark would later work.

Strong Seasons: In 2021, he guided Appalachian State to a 10-win season, something that is considered a big achievement in college football.

Player Development: Many of his players improved under his guidance and went on to play in the NFL or continue careers in coaching.

Clark was known for his simple but powerful coaching style. He believed in discipline, hard work, and teamwork. He often said that football teaches life lessons like responsibility and perseverance.

New Role at UCF

In 2025, Shawn Clark joined the University of Central Florida as the offensive line coach. For UCF, hiring Clark was seen as a big success. He brought years of experience as both a head coach and an offensive line expert.

Even though he was new to the team, he quickly built strong relationships with the players. Several of them shared after his passing that he was easy to talk to, always encouraging, and never treated anyone unfairly.

• Sadly, his time at UCF was cut short due to his sudden medical emergency and untimely death.
• Tributes From UCF and Beyond
• The news of Clark’s passing brought an outpouring of grief and respect from the football community.

Scott Frost, UCF’s head coach, said Clark was much more than just a football coach. He called him a “remarkable man” and highlighted his qualities as a husband, father, and mentor. Frost added that Clark’s compassion and leadership made a difference in the lives of many people.

Terry Mohajir, UCF’s athletic director, said Clark will be remembered for his ability to build meaningful relationships. He noted that Clark earned respect everywhere he went and that his legacy is not just about wins and losses but also about how he treated people.

Many players from Appalachian State and UCF shared their memories on social media. Some said Clark believed in them when no one else did. Others wrote that he pushed them to work harder while also being caring and supportive.

Family Life

Shawn Clark is survived by his wife, Jonelle, and their two children, Giana and Braxton. His family has been at the center of his life. Even during his busy coaching career, he always tried to spend time with his wife and kids.

Friends describe him as a devoted father who never missed a chance to support his children’s activities. Whether it was school events, sports, or family trips, he tried to be present whenever he could.

His family is now receiving support from the wider football community. Both Appalachian State and UCF have promised to help them during this difficult time.

Legacy

Shawn Clark’s story is not only about football. It is about leadership, kindness, and the ability to inspire people.

• As a player, he showed excellence on the field.
• As a coach, he guided teams to success and built strong bonds with players.
• As a person, he was remembered for his humility, warmth, and dedication to family.

For many athletes he coached, Clark will be remembered as the person who believed in them when they doubted themselves. He pushed them to work harder and aim higher.

A Reminder of Life’s Fragility

Clark’s sudden passing at the age of 50 is also a reminder that life can be unpredictable. He seemed healthy, active, and passionate about his work. Yet, a medical emergency changed everything within days.

His death has encouraged conversations about health awareness, regular checkups, and the importance of supporting loved ones. For his players and colleagues, it is a lesson not only in football but also in appreciating every moment.

The death of Shawn Clark is a major loss for UCF, Appalachian State, and the entire college football world. At just 50 years old, he had already built an impressive career as a player and coach. More importantly, he touched the lives of countless people with his kindness, dedication, and leadership.

Though his time at UCF was brief, his impact will be long-lasting. His players, colleagues, and family will carry forward the lessons he taught—both on the football field and in life.

As the sports world mourns his passing, Shawn Clark will be remembered not only for the games he won but for the people he inspired and the love he gave to his family and community.