ORLANDO, Fla. — The University of Central Florida football program is mourning the death of Offensive Line Coach Shawn Clark, who passed away Sunday at the age of 50.
Clark was hospitalized earlier this month after a medical emergency. He had joined UCF in December 2024 following a successful tenure as head coach at Appalachian State, where he compiled a 40 to 24 record over five seasons.
UCF Head Coach Scott Frost called Clark “so much more than a coach,” describing him as a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about players and staff. “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,” Frost said.
UCF Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir said the program is heartbroken. “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 was a veteran coach with more than two decades of experience in the game. Before arriving at UCF, he not only served as head coach at Appalachian State but also spent years on staff there as an assistant. He previously held positions at Purdue, Kent State, Eastern Kentucky, and Louisville. As a player, he was a two time All American offensive lineman at Appalachian State in the 1990s.
The news of his passing has drawn reactions from across the college football community. At Appalachian State, where he played and later coached, tributes have poured in from former players and colleagues remembering his leadership and loyalty to the program.
Clark leaves behind his wife Jonelle and their two children. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced
