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Kentucky assistant coach dies after ‘Courageous’ battle with cancer
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Kentucky announced that offensive line coach John Schlarman has passed away. The highly-regarded coach was 45-years old.
Two years ago, Schlarman was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a cancer that affects the liver. Last month, Schlarman coached for the final time along the sidelines at Kentucky, a win over Tennessee. After the game, the offensive line coach was awarded a game ball by head coach Mark Stoops.
With extremely heavy hearts, we're devastated to announce @CoachSchlarman's passing.
Please keep the Schlarman family in your hearts and we'll always remain #SchlarmanStrong | #BigBlueWall💙https://t.co/fxyLVVzJmz pic.twitter.com/xLtY4DkXVW
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) November 12, 2020
Schlarman joined Kentucky in 2013 when Stoops took over the program. The two coaches were influential in the direction of the program in recent years.
“I’m heartbroken to learn about the passing of my friend, John Schlarman” Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops said in a statement released by the program.
“My prayers go out to LeeAnne and the kids, Joseph, Benjamin, Matthew and Evelyn, through this very difficult time. John was everything we all strive to be – honest, tough, fair, respected. Kentucky football won’t be the same without him but his legacy will never fade. He was a fighter and we will strive every day to honor his warrior spirit.”
Over the past few months, we asked members of our @UKFootball family what @CoachSchlarman means to them.
An incredible person who's impact reaches throughout our community, and who will always hold a special place in our hearts 💙 #SchlarmanStrong pic.twitter.com/4eUU8oIUi8
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) November 12, 2020
Under Stoops and with Schlarman alongside, Kentucky rebuilt a program that has struggled over the years to be competitive in the SEC. The Wildcats have pieced together four-straight winning seasons and won consecutive bowl games the past two seasons.
I’m heartbroken to learn about the passing of my friend, John Schlarman. My prayers go out to LeeAnne and the kids, Joseph, Benjamin, Matthew and Evelyn, through this very difficult time.
— Mark Stoops (@UKCoachStoops) November 12, 2020
A solid offensive line under Schlarman was consistently credited for being a major part in reviving the program.
Schlarman is survived by his wife LeeAnne and their four children.