Chuck Amato, former NC State football coach, dies at 80

Chuck Amato, the former NC State football head coach and longtime Florida State assistant, has died at the age of 80. He passed away early Monday at his home in Raleigh while under hospice care, according to an announcement from NC State.

Amato led the Wolfpack from 2000 to 2006, a tenure marked by the development of NFL quarterback Philip Rivers and an 11-win season in 2002, which remains the program’s only season with double-digit wins. Known for his flamboyant sideline style and large personality, Amato is credited with modernizing the NC State football program and raising its profile through stadium renovations and increased recruitment.

NC State head coach Dave Doeren described Amato as a “huge personality, a great mentor to coaches and players alike, and a great alumnus.” Amato had previously battled throat cancer.