UCF assistant, former App State coach Shawn Clark dies at 50

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UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark died on Sunday night at the age of 50.

The school said he passed unexpectedly at an Orlando hospital with his wife, Jonelle, by his side.

Clark, who was in his first season with the Knights, had been in stable condition since being admitted Sept. 9 following a medical emergency.

“Shawn was so much more than a coach. He was a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about his players and staff,” said UCF head coach Scott Frost. “The reaction of our players and coaches to the news this morning is a testament to Shawn’s character and the impact he had on every life that he touched. He was loved. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jonelle, and children, Giana and Braxton. We are here to support them and will continue to keep them in our hearts and prayers.”

Clark was the head coach at alma mater Appalachian State for five seasons from 2019-24, finishing 40-24 with a 3-1 bowl record.

“We are heartbroken by Shawn’s passing,” said UCF athletic director Terry Mohajir. “He brought passion, integrity, and a genuine love for people to everything he did. Shawn will be remembered not only for his impact on the game of football, but also for the relationships he built and the example he set as a husband and father. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife and children during this difficult time.”

Clark, a West Virginia native, held coaching positions at Louisville, Eastern Kentucky, Purdue and Kent State before joining the staff at Appalachian State in 2016.

Appalachian State fired Clark last December following a 5-6 season, the Mountaineers’ first losing season since 2013.

Clark was a two-time All-American and three-time all-conference selection as an offensive lineman at Appalachian State from 1994-98.

–Field Level Media