India, March 5 -- Lou Holtz, College Football Hall of Fame coach who guided Notre Dame to the 1988 championship, has died. He was 89. The school announced that he passed in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by his family. His official cause of death was not revealed.

"Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather," Notre Dame President Rev Robert A Dowd said.

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime... Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered ...