Lou Holtz, the legendary former American football coach of the University Notre Dame, has died at the age of 89.
Holtz coached Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, leading the team through an undefeated season and championship in 1988. He also coached several other university teams and spent one season in the NFL with the New York Jets.
Holtz, a long-time Republican, spoke at the party’s convention in 2020 to endorse Donald Trump. Trump awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honour, in December 2020.
“Holtz is remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others,” his family said in a statement.
“His influence extended far beyond the football field through the Holtz Charitable Foundation and the many players, colleagues, and communities shaped by his leadership.”
He died surrounded by family in Orlando, Florida, the family statement added.
The West Virginia native grew up in East Liverpool, Ohio, and played linebacker at Kent State University.
In his five-decade career, he led football teams at several universities, including William & Mary, North Carolina State, Arkansas, Minnesota and South Carolina.
“He transformed every team he inherited,” his family said.
During his time with Notre Dame, he led the team – known as The Fighting Irish – to 100 victories. He won 249 total games across his 33 seasons of coaching.
“Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime,” Notre Dame said in a statement.
The statement added that the coach instituted several team traditions that remain today, including a famous “Play Like A Champion” sign in the Fighting Irish locker room. Holtz also removed names from the back of players’ jerseys to highlight the team dynamic.
Videos of his inspirational speeches to his players before games earned him fans in the years after his coaching career ended.
Following his sport career, he went on to become a commentators for broadcasters ESPN and CBS.
By BBC News
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