The college football community is mourning the passing of Shawn Clark, the former Appalachian State head coach whose toughness, loyalty, and devotion to his players defined a remarkable career.
Tennessee Vols quarterback Joey Aguilar, who developed into a leader under Clark in Boone, shared an emotional tribute. “Can’t thank you enough coach! Forever love!” Aguilar wrote. For Joey, now starting in the SEC, Clark was more than a coach. He was a mentor who instilled belief and accountability.
Clark’s journey with the Mountaineers was lifelong. A former offensive lineman in the 1990s, he returned to his alma mater as an assistant before taking over as head coach in 2019. His leadership carried Appalachian State’s proud tradition forward with postseason success and Sun Belt contention, always rooted in the program’s hard-nosed identity.
Devastating for all of us that had the honor of doing life with Shawn Clark. A great human being that impacted so many people. A great coach, loyal friend, and mentor that will truly be missed. Prayers for Jonelle, Braxton, Giana and the community of people that love Shawn. pic.twitter.com/ecKSSZ2xnD
— 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝑵𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒍 (@CoachCardwell_) September 22, 2025
Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz, who coached with Clark at App State, described him as “one of the finest coaches, husband and father that I’ve ever known. His love and loyalty for those on his team was contagious. My prayers are with his family and those who knew Shawn. 2nd Corinthians 1:3-4.”
Former App State linebacker Andrew Parker Jr. echoed those sentiments with a vivid comparison. “Coach Clark was the Rocky Balboa of coaches, never threw in the towel, and always responded to adversity with his chin up and chest out. He’ll be remembered as a true champion, a leader of men, and what it means to be a Mountaineer.”
Clark’s legacy will not be measured solely in wins or bowl trophies but in the lives he touched. For players, colleagues, and fans, his example of resilience and devotion ensured that his impact will live on for many years to come.
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