President Donald Trump Releases Statement On Lou Holtz's Death

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The college football world lost a legend this week in former Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz.

Holtz passed away this Wednesday at the age of 89. He coached at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame and South Carolina before becoming a broadcaster for CBS Sports and ESPN. The two-time Paul "Bear" Bryant Award winner was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.

"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 was preceded in death by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Beth, with whom he shared a life grounded in faith, devotion, and service," his family said in a statement.

"Holtz is remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. 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 is survived by his four children, nine grandchildren, and two great‑grandchildren. Funeral arrangements, including a Mass of Christian Burial at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame, will be announced as details are finalized."

On Thursday night, President Donald Trump released a statement on Holtz's death. He referred to the legendary coach as a "winner on and off the field."

"The wonderful Lou Holtz passed away yesterday, so sad. Lou was an absolute WINNER both on and off the field. Not only did he spearhead Notre Dame’s HISTORIC undefeated season in 1988 (including the legendary 31-30 'Catholics v. Convicts' Victory against Miami), he raised Millions upon Millions for struggling student-athletes, and the AMAZING University of Notre Dame (Go Irish!)," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "He was also a true American Patriot, supporting me through thick and thin, and consistently speaking out against Democrat Insanity, including 'Transgender for Everybody,' and the Illegal Alien Invasion. It is for all this incredible work that I gave Lou Holtz our Nation’s Highest Civilian Honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Rest in Peace, Lou. Because of Patriots like you, we have made America GREAT AGAIN!"

What we know about Lou Holtz's death.

ABC reported in January that Holtz entered hospice care. That was the first indication that his health was deteriorating.

Although it was previously reported that Holtz was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 and throat cancer back in 1997, it's unclear what health battle he was facing in 2026.

All we know for sure is that Holtz's legacy will live on for years to come.

This story was originally published by The Spun on Mar 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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