Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz, at 88 years old, continues to make his presence felt in the sports world, demonstrating that age is merely a number. In January 2025, Holtz attended the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game between Notre Dame and Ohio State at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, reigniting his spirited rivalry with Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day.
Holtz, who led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988, has never been one to shy away from expressing his opinions. Prior to the championship game, he took to social media to predict a Notre Dame victory, stating, “If Notre Dame doesn’t win, it’s because we want to preserve Ryan Day’s job.” He further emphasized his confidence by writing, “Ohio State has the talent, but Notre Dame has the heart, the culture, and the defense to win this game.”
This ongoing feud between Holtz and Day dates back to the 2023 season when Holtz criticized Day’s coaching and questioned Ohio State’s physicality. Following an Ohio State victory over Notre Dame that year, Day passionately defended his team, highlighting their toughness and resilience. As of the recent championship game, the two have not reconciled, maintaining a competitive tension that adds intrigue to their matchups.
Beyond his involvement in high-profile games and rivalries, Holtz remains active in various facets of life. He celebrated his 88th birthday at Lake Nona Lodge in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by approximately 150 guests, including many former players from his 11-year tenure at Notre Dame. The event underscored Holtz’s lasting impact on his players and his commitment to fostering a supportive community.
Holtz also continues to contribute to philanthropic efforts through his Heroes Foundation, which assists former student-athletes facing financial, physical … and provides scholarships to deserving youth. His dedication to giving back reflects the values he instilled in his teams throughout his coaching career.
Residing in Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida, Holtz remains a prominent figure in the football community. His son, Skip Holtz, has followed in his footsteps, establishing his own coaching career. Lou Holtz’s enduring involvement in football, philanthropy, and mentorship serves as an inspiration, affirming that his legendary status is not confined to the past but continues to thrive in the present.
Leave a Reply