Nick Saban's Daughter Shares Tribute After Notre Dame Legend Lou Holtz Dies at 89

Kristen Saban posts emotional video highlighting Holtz's message about resilience and ignoring negativity.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Nick Saban's daughter, Kristen, paid an emotional tribute after the passing of Notre Dame coaching icon Lou Holtz at the age of 89. Kristen shared a powerful video of Holtz delivering one of his signature motivational messages, emphasizing the importance of not letting criticism define you and believing in yourself despite negative opinions. Holtz's words about resilience and personal responsibility have long resonated across the college football world, and Kristen's post drew parallels to the leadership philosophy associated with her father, Nick Saban.

Why it matters

Holtz was a revered figure in college football, known for his passionate speeches, disciplined approach to leadership, and emphasis on character development. His motivational messages have inspired generations of players, coaches, and fans, and his passing marks the end of an era. Kristen Saban's tribute highlights the timeless nature of Holtz's wisdom, which continues to be relevant for athletes, coaches, and everyday people navigating criticism and setbacks.

The details

In the video shared by Kristen Saban, Holtz can be heard delivering one of his signature motivational messages, reminding people not to let criticism define them. He says, "People can say negative things," and "People can tear you up," reinforcing the idea that outside opinions should never dictate one's self-worth. Holtz's message about resilience and self-belief has long been a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy and leadership style.

  • Lou Holtz passed away at the age of 89 on March 5, 2026.
  • Holtz had been in hospice care for a while before his passing.

The players

Lou Holtz

A legendary college football coach who was widely regarded as one of the most influential voices and leaders in the sport. Holtz built a reputation for turning programs around and creating a culture of accountability, highlighted by his time as the head coach at Notre Dame, where he led the team to a national championship in 1988.

Kristen Saban

The daughter of Nick Saban, the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team. Kristen Saban shared an emotional tribute to Lou Holtz, highlighting the legendary coach's motivational message about resilience and self-belief.

Nick Saban

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, known for his disciplined approach to leadership and emphasis on mental toughness, principles that closely mirror the message shared by Lou Holtz in the video posted by Kristen Saban.

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What they’re saying

“People can say negative things. People can tear you up.”

— Lou Holtz

The takeaway

Lou Holtz's passing marks the end of an era in college football, but the lessons he left behind continue to live on. Through tributes like Kristen Saban's, Holtz's message of resilience and self-belief will remain part of the sport's culture for years to come, inspiring athletes, coaches, and everyday people to overcome criticism and stay true to their personal beliefs.