PHOTO VIA UCFKNIGHTS.COM
The University of Central Florida announced Sunday evening that offensive line coach Shawn Clark has died unexpectedly at the age of 50. He had been hospitalized following a medical emergency on September 9 and was reportedly in stable condition before his untimely passing.
Clark joined the UCF coaching staff in December 2024, part of head coach Scott Frost’s new regime. Before arriving in Orlando, he had built a strong reputation as the head coach at Appalachian State, where, over five seasons, he compiled a 40-24 record and led the Mountaineers to multiple bowl appearances.
He was known not only for his coaching skills but for his character. UCF’s head coach, Scott Frost, said, “Shawn was so much more than a coach. He was a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about his players and staff.” The university’s athletic director, Terry Mohajir, echoed similar sentiments: Clark brought passion, integrity, and a genuine love for people to all aspects of his life.
In his earlier years, Clark was a standout player. At Appalachian State, he was a two-time All-American and a three-time all-conference selection on the offensive line. After his playing days, he climbed the coaching ranks, holding positions at Eastern Kentucky, Purdue, Kent State, and later returning to App State before taking the helm there.
He is survived by his wife, Jonelle, who was at his side when he passed, and their two children, Giana and Braxton.
