A photo of Colorado head coach Bill McCartney being carried off the field after a win over Nebraska during the 1989 season. (Photo credit: Cliff Grassmick/Digital First Media/Boulder Daily Camera, Getty Images)
Former Colorado head coach Bill McCartney, who led the Buffaloes to the national championship in 1990, has died at the age of 84. Her son Mike McCartney posted a statement from his family on social media on Friday.
“It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Bill McCartney, has passed away peacefully at the age of 84 after a courageous journey with dementia,” the statement read. said.
“As a leader, mentor, and advocate for family, community, and faith, Coach Mack touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and enduring legacy. A pioneer. As a visionary, his influence was felt on and off the field, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he inspired.
“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived and the love he shared with those around him. We would like to thank him for the outpouring of prayers and support during this difficult time. We ask for your privacy as we navigate this journey.”
In lieu of flowers, the family asked people to make donations in McCartney’s name to local churches.
McCartney coached at the University of Colorado from 1982 to 1994, leading the team to three Big Eight titles and the school’s first national title. Through 13 seasons, McCartney recorded more wins and bowl game appearances than any coach in school history.
In a statement from the school, Colorado athletic director Rick George spoke of his friendship with McCartney, who hired him as recruiting coordinator in 1987. George said he visited McCartney last week to say goodbye before he died.
“Coach Mack was a great man who taught me the importance of faith, family, and being a good husband, father, and grandfather. He inspired all of us who worked and played under his leadership. The mark he left on CU football and our athletic department will be difficult to replicate.” George said in a statement. “I have many fond memories of Coach Mack and will keep them close to my heart.”
McCartney was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 1999 and the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. He was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013 as the school’s only coach to be recognized.
