Steelers Nation Mourns the Passing of Loyal Fan and Beloved Coach Shawn Clark at 50
Pittsburgh, PA – Steelers Nation is grieving today following the heartbreaking news that Shawn Clark, longtime college football coach and devoted fan of the Black and Gold, has passed away at the age of 50.
Clark, best known for his years as head coach at Appalachian State and most recently as an assistant at UCF, built a career defined by toughness, loyalty, and dedication to the game he loved. Off the field, he carried that same passion into the stands and living rooms, proudly cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers every Sunday.
Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Clark rose from being a standout offensive lineman at Appalachian State to building a respected coaching career that spanned more than two decades. His journey took him through Louisville, Eastern Kentucky, Purdue, Kent State, and eventually back home to Boone, North Carolina, where he led the Mountaineers from 2019 to 2024.
In September 2025, Clark suffered a sudden medical emergency and was hospitalized. Despite initial signs of stability, he tragically passed away on September 21 with his wife Jonelle by his side. His death leaves a void not only in the college football world but also in Steelers Nation, where he was known as a true believer in the team’s grit, history, and identity.
Steelers fans remember Clark not only as a coach but as one of their own — a loyal supporter who lived the values of hard work and resilience that define Pittsburgh football.
"We lost more than a coach today — we lost a member of the Black and Gold family," a Steelers community leader said. "Shawn Clark’s love for this team was as strong as his love for the game. He’ll be forever remembered in Steelers Nation."
As the Steelers prepare for the weeks ahead, the organization and its fans extend heartfelt condolences to the Clark family. His memory will live on in every chant of “Here We Go” and every Terrible Towel waved inside Acrisure Stadium.
Rest in peace, Shawn Clark. Forever Black and Gold.
Eagles Hall of Famer Builds 22-Acre Haven to Empower Veterans, Inspire Kids and Support Recovery
Philadelphia, PA – August 13, 2025
In Philadelphia, not every battle is fought on the gridiron. Some are waged in silence — far more brutal than any tackle — and their victories aren’t recorded in the stat sheet, but in the hearts of those who’ve been saved.
This story begins with a childhood friendship — two boys growing up side by side, sharing afternoons tossing a ball, trading dreams, and eventually… weathering pain together. One of them fell into the spiral of addiction, losing years to the struggle. But with sheer will and the right support, he reclaimed his life.
Watching his friend rise from rock bottom left a mark that would never fade. It wasn’t just admiration — it was a calling. A feeling that this recovery story had to be transformed into an open hand, reaching for others still in the fight.
The decision took shape: a 22-acre retreat in Beaver County, Pennsylvania — just a few hours from the heart of Philadelphia — would be built as a place of healing and connection for those in need of a new beginning. Warm cabins tucked between wooded trails, a clear stream running through the land, mentorship programs, outdoor adventures, and community events — all designed to offer the same kind of support his friend once received.
The man behind this vision is Brian Dawkins. The Eagles legend, Hall of Famer, and the heartbeat of Philadelphia’s defense for over a decade is now stepping into a different role — as a builder of hope.
“As an Eagles Hall of Famer, I’ve felt the roar of the crowd and the glory of victory — but nothing compares to helping someone rebuild their life. This 22-acre haven is my way of giving others the same hope my friend once found,”
The retreat will focus on three groups: veterans, children facing adversity, and people in recovery from addiction. Partnerships with local nonprofits and professionals will ensure it’s not just a destination, but a life-changing journey.
For Brian Dawkins, the greatest legacy of an Eagles player isn’t only the bone-rattling hits or the unforgettable victories — it’s the ability to create lasting change beyond the field. And in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, that legacy is being written again — not in highlight reels, but in stories of rebirth.
