Legendary Notre Dame football coach, College Football Hall of Famer and popular ESPN broadcaster Lou Holtz has died at age 89.
“Louis Leo “Lou” Holtz, legendary college football coach, Hall of Famer, bestselling author, and one of America’s most motivational voices, has passed away at the age of 89 in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by family,” Notre Dame announced a statement shared via social media on Wednesday, March 4.
The statement continued, “Born January 6, 1937 in Follansbee, West Virginia, Holtz rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected figures in college athletics. Over a remarkable five-decade career, he led college programs at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame and South Carolina. He transformed every team he inherited and captured the 1988 National Championship with the Fighting Irish.”
Holtz leaves behind four children, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Beth Holtz, Lou’s wife of 58 years, died in 2020.
“Holtz is remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service and an unwavering belief in the potential of others,” Notre Dame’s statement added. “His influence extended far beyond the football field through the Holtz Charitable Foundation and the many players, colleagues, and communities shaped by his leadership.”
Lou’s son, former college football head coach Skip Holtz, confirmed his dad’s death on Wednesday, just over a month after Lou entered hospice care.
“My father passed away today resting peacefully at home,” Skip, 61, wrote via X. “I appreciate everyone’s thoughts and prayers over the last couple months! He was successful, but more important he was Significant.”
Lou’s head coaching career began at the College of William & Mary in 1969. He worked his way up the college ranks to take over at Notre Dame in 1986. In his third year, he led the Fighting Irish to a consensus national championship and undefeated season.
After finishing his coaching career at South Carolina in 2004, Lou turned to broadcasting, starting at CBS and continuing at ESPN until 2015.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lou Holtz,” current Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman said in a statement via X. “Lou and I shared a very special relationship. He welcomed me to the Notre Dame family immediately, offering me great support throughout our time together. Our relationship meant a lot to me as I admired the values he used to build the foundation of his coaching career: love, trust and commitment.”
He continued, “Lou’s impact at Notre Dame has gone well beyond the football field. He and his wife, Beth, are respected across campus for their generous hearts and commitment to carrying out Notre Dame’s mission of being a force for good. On behalf of the Notre Dame football program, we send our love to Lou’s family, friends and former players, wishing you all comfort and peace during this difficult time.”
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