Troubling news has UCF amid a strong start to the season. O-line coach Shawn Clark has passed away at the age of 50. He had come back to his roots with the Knights just this year, but things took a turn for the worse abruptly. Clark came to Boone with years of experience as a college football coach, and was an important hire for Scoot Frost. Fans were following updates about the O-line coach’s health after a troubling incident in the beginning of the season. Here’s what we know about the devastating loss.

“We are heartbroken by Shawn’s passing,” UCF AD Terry Mohajir said in an official statement. “He brought passion, integrity, and a genuine love for people to everything he did,” he added.  Shawn Clark was hired as UCF’s O-line coach this year, after a 10-year long career at Appalachian State. Things were off to a pleasant start for the coach, but tragedy loomed right after the first game. Shawn Clark is survived by his wife Jonelle, and kids Giana and Braxton. In his absence, Alex Farah takes over as interim O-line coach, who was hand-picked by Clark.

How did Shawn Clark die? Cause of death explained

Clark was rushed to a hospital for a “medical emergency” on September 9, reports confirmed. UCF had also announced that his condition had been stable since then. However, the tragic turn of events came unexpectedly. More details are awaited about the true cause of Shawn Clark’s passing, as no information has been made public ever since he was admitted to the hospital. Orlando Sentinel reports that Clark’s wife was present by his side when he passed.

Tributes and condolences from the football world

Shawn Clark was among HC Scott Frost‘s first hires when he took charge at UCF. His passing will be a tough blow for the HC. “Shawn was so much more than a coach. He was a remarkable man, husband, and father who cared deeply about his players and staff,” Knights head coach Scott Frost said in a statement. “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,” he added.

Clark was also instrumental in shaping the collegiate careers of players like Colby Gossett, Beau Nunn, Justice Hansen, and more. RB and former Buffalo Bills player Darrynton Evans shared a heartfelt tribute to his former head coach. “Prayers for the Clark family as a whole! Shawn influenced a-lot of young players, and I truly appreciate the time spent and memories made!” he shared on his Instagram story. UCF QB1 Tayven Jackson also remembered the Clark. “RIP COACH,” he shared on Instagram.

Clark was also a reason for the success of star Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar, who reached the 2023 Sun Belt Conference Championship at Appalachian State. “Can’t thank you enough coach! Forever love,” he shared on social media upon the Clark’s passing. Aguilar was Newcomer of the Year in the Sun Belt Conference in 2023, under the guidance of his former HC. He registered a career-high in passing yards with 3,757 that year.

Shawn Clark was a proven O-line coach, having played at the position at UCF during his collegiate career. Being a 2-time All-American during his time as an O-lineman, he brought crucial experience as a coach for the Knights’ O-line. Losing Clark will be a tough loss for the UCF family, who were hoping to have him on board for some time. The success of the UCF so far will be marred by the sad news for the rest of the season.