Shawn Clark, who was serving as an assistant coach at the University of Central Florida, has tragically passed away at 50.
UCF head coach Scott Frost told reporters last week that Clark had been hospitalized due to a medical emergency on Sept. 9, but he was “doing OK, he’s in stable condition.” However, the school announced that he died “unexpectedly” on Sunday, Sept. 21. Clark’s wife, Jonelle, was by his side when he passed. He is also survived by their two children, Giana and Braxton.
Clark spent five seasons as head coach of Appalachian State, where he finished with a 40-24 record along with multiple Sun Belt East Division. He joined UCF in December 2024.
Tributes Pour In For Shawn Clark
UCF posted a sweet tribute on social media following Clark’s passing.
“A remarkable man, husband and father,” the official account for the UCF football team posted on Instagram. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of offensive line coach Shawn Clark. 💛”
The Big 12 Conference also posted, paying tribute to Clark.
“The Big 12 Conference mourns the loss of UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark,” they wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to Shawn’s family, friends, and loved ones. Our thoughts are with the entire UCF community during this difficult time.”
UCF Head Coach Scott Frost Details Shawn Clark’s Impact
Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty ImagesThe school also released a statement on their website, including sentiments from the UCF head coach Scott Frost, along with UCF Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir.
“Shawn was so much more than a coach. He was a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about his players and staff,” Frost said. “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.”
“We are heartbroken by Shawn’s passing,” Mohajir said. “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.”
