Reaction to the death of College Football Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz at 89

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Reaction to the death of College Football Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz, who led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988.

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“Lou and I shared a very special relationship. He welcomed me to the Notre Dame family immediately, offering me great support throughout our time together. Our relationship meant a lot to me as I admired the values he used to build the foundation of his coaching career: love, trust and commitment. ... Lou’s impact at Notre Dame has gone well beyond the football team. He and his wife, Beth, are respected across campus for their generous hearts and commitment to carrying out Notre Dame’s mission of being a force for good.” — Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman.

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“He was successful. But more important, he was significant.” — Skip Holtz, son of Lou Holtz and a fellow football coach.

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“Lou Holtz was more than a football figure. He was a true leader. One of one. He consistently encouraged others in life. The message never changed. Trust, Love, Commitment.” — Rick Mirer, Notre Dame quarterback from 1989-1992.

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“Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather. 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. ... Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed." — The Rev. Robert A. Dowd, University of Notre Dame president.

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“Lou Holtz was a giant of college football whose influence on the game is matched only by the impact he had on people. Coach Holtz built championship programs, transformed young men into leaders, and brought passion and discipline to every sideline he paced. His on-field success is etched in the history of the sport, but it was his unmistakable voice and quick wit that connected him so deeply with football fans everywhere." — Southeastern Conference commissioner Greg Sankey.

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"He not only was a great coach, he was a great person. We need more people like Lou Holtz. ... He was a jokester and a character. People liked to be around him. It’s hard to put a tag on Lou Holtz. He did everything so well. He was a great speaker. He attracted crowds wherever he went.” — former West Virginia coach Don Nehlen.

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“Coach Lou Holtz was a legend on and off the field, who cared deeply for the state of Indiana and lived a remarkable life grounded in faith, family, and giving back. He will be greatly missed.” — Indiana Gov. Mike Braun.

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“I learned that it was a bad idea to speak after him at an event because he was such an inspirational and motivational speaker. He was truly one of a kind.” — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis

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