At the 2026 AFCA Convention, Jonelle Clark delivered a powerful and heartfelt message to the coaching profession following the unexpected passing of her husband, UCF offensive line coach Shawn Clark. Speaking directly to the football community, she challenged coaches to recognize that their health is not something to put off, ignore, or sacrifice for the game.
In this emotional and inspiring speech, Mrs. Clark speaks to the realities of a profession built on long hours, constant stress, and relentless expectations. She urges coaches to get physicals, monitor their blood pressure, address stress, and understand that caring for themselves is not selfish, it is a responsibility.
“This job doesn’t just affect you. It affects the people who love you.”
Her message is a call to action for football coaches to make health and wellness a standard of care, not an afterthought. Not someday. Not when it’s convenient. Now.
Healthy coaches lead longer.
They perform better.
And they stay with their families longer.
Let this be a reminder that your impact reaches far beyond the sidelines, and your life is worth protecting.
The American Football Coaches Association was founded to ensure that every football coach receives the finest professional development support and resources available. We bring relevant topics and current advancements directly to your desktop. We are committed to football coaching education and helping you reach and exceed your goals for success with our Professional Development Series. Along with industry networking, membership provides a forum for you to find Professional Football Coaching Jobs nationwide. By joining the AFCA you have full access to a group of like-minded, well-respected individuals in the coaching profession.
The American Football Coaches Association was founded to ensure that every football coach receives the finest professional development support and resources available. We bring relevant topics and current advancements directly to your desktop. We are committed to football coaching education and helping you reach and exceed your goals for success with our Professional Development Series. Along with industry networking, membership provides a forum for you to find Professional Football Coaching Jobs nationwide. By joining the AFCA you have full access to a group of like-minded, well-respected individuals in the coaching profession.
The American Football Coaches Association was founded to ensure that every football coach receives the finest professional development support and resources available. We bring relevant topics and current advancements directly to your desktop. We are committed to football coaching education and helping you reach and exceed your goals for success with our Professional Development Series. Along with industry networking, membership provides a forum for you to find Professional Football Coaching Jobs nationwide. By joining the AFCA you have full access to a group of like-minded, well-respected individuals in the coaching profession.
The American Football Coaches Association was founded to ensure that every football coach receives the finest professional development support and resources available. We bring relevant topics and current advancements directly to your desktop. We are committed to football coaching education and helping you reach and exceed your goals for success with our Professional Development Series. Along with industry networking, membership provides a forum for you to find Professional Football Coaching Jobs nationwide. By joining the AFCA you have full access to a group of like-minded, well-respected individuals in the coaching profession.
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The American Football Coaches Association was founded to ensure that every football coach receives the finest professional development support and resources available. We bring relevant topics and current advancements directly to your desktop. We are committed to football coaching education and helping you reach and exceed your goals for success with our Professional Development Series. Along with industry networking, membership provides a forum for you to find Professional Football Coaching Jobs nationwide. By joining the AFCA you have full access to a group of like-minded, well-respected individuals in the coaching profession.
