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UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark died Sunday evening following a “medical emergency” that had hospitalized him since September 9, the university announced. Clark, who turned 50 in August, had joined Scott Frost’s staff this offseason after leading Appalachian State’s program for five years.
Clark had been in stable condition at the hospital during UCF’s bye week, but his condition ultimately deteriorated.
“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 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. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jonelle, and children, Giana and Braxton. We’re here to support them and will continue to keep them in our hearts and prayers.”
The Knights had already made temporary coaching adjustments during Clark’s absence. Alex Farah — described by Frost as Clark’s “handpicked assistant” — had stepped in to handle offensive line coaching duties while the team hoped for Clark’s recovery.
Respected Coaching Career
Before joining UCF, Clark had compiled a 40-24 record at his alma mater Appalachian State. The Mountaineers let him go in December after the program posted its first losing season since 2013 — coincidentally the school’s final year competing at the FCS level.
His journey at App State was a full circle moment in his career.
Clark initially served four years as the Mountaineers’ offensive line coach before being promoted to head coach when Eli Drinkwitz departed. During his tenure, he led App State to three bowl victories and two conference championship game appearances.
UCF Athletic Director Terry Mohajir expressed the program’s grief: “We are heartbroken by Shawn’s passing. 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.”
The coaching community had rallied around Clark during his hospitalization.
Both Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz and former North Carolina coach Mack Brown had publicly voiced support for Clark and his family during this challenging time.
Frost’s comments earlier this month now carry additional weight: “Things like this put football into perspective. We love it, it’s what we do and we spend a lot of time at it, but there’s bigger things happening in life.”
Clark’s offensive line units at App State earned national recognition, twice being named among the top 15 in the country as Joe Moore Award nominees. His expertise in developing front-line talent made him a valuable addition to Frost’s staff at UCF.
A West Virginia native, Clark played offensive line for App State from 1994 to 1998 before launching his coaching career. His path eventually led him back to Boone, North Carolina, where he made his most significant coaching impact before joining the Knights.
