Lou Holtz, the College Football Hall of Fame coach who led Notre Dame to the 1988 national championship, died Wednesday in Orlando, Florida, at age 89. Notre Dame announced his death, with his family stating he was surrounded by loved ones. A cause of death was not provided, though reports indicated he had entered hospice care in January.

Holtz compiled a 249-132-7 record over 33 seasons, ranking 10th all-time in career victories among major college football coaches. He became the first and only coach to lead six different teams to bowl games during his career, coaching at William & Mary, North Carolina State, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame, and South Carolina.

At Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, Holtz went 100-30-2 in 11 seasons, producing both the third-highest win total and second-highest loss total in school history. His 1988 Fighting Irish team completed a perfect 12-0 season and claimed the national championship. The diminutive coach was known for his fiery sideline demeanor, self-deprecating wit, and demanding excellence from his players both on and off the field.

After retiring from coaching in 2004, Holtz transitioned to broadcasting and motivational speaking, becoming a popular television personality. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008. Beyond football, Holtz was an avid golfer who once called winning a member-guest tournament at Augusta National his "greatest accomplishment."

Holtz's family said he would be "remembered for his enduring values of faith, family, service and an unwavering belief in the potential of others." Republican lawmakers, including senators Tommy Tuberville and Lindsey Graham, offered condolences following news of his death.