Notre Dame Honors Legendary Football Coach Lou Holtz

Holtz, who led the Irish to a national title, remembered as a 'man of love' at funeral

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:51pm

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Former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz, who led the Irish to their last national championship, was laid to rest on the university's campus on Monday. Holtz, who died at the age of 86, was remembered by speakers as a 'man of love' despite having some faults during his tenure.

Why it matters

Holtz's tenure as Notre Dame's head coach from 1986 to 1996 is considered one of the most successful in the program's storied history. He led the team to the 1988 national title and 11 bowl game appearances, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in college football.

The details

Holtz's funeral was held on Notre Dame's campus, where he led the Irish to a 100-30-2 record over his 11 seasons as head coach. While speakers acknowledged Holtz had some faults, they focused on his positive impact, describing him as a 'man of love' who cared deeply about his players and the university.

  • Lou Holtz died at the age of 86 on March 12, 2026.
  • Holtz's funeral was held on Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Lou Holtz

Former head football coach of the University of Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, leading the team to the 1988 national championship.

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The takeaway

Holtz's legacy at Notre Dame is cemented as one of the greatest coaches in the program's history, leading the team to a national title and numerous bowl game appearances despite having some faults during his tenure. His passing is being mourned by the Notre Dame community and college football fans alike.