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John schlarman, an assistant coach of the University of Kentucky football team and an offensive lineman for the All-Southeastern Conference during his playing days in the UK, died Thursday after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 45 years old.
“I’m heartbroken to learn of my friend’s death, John schlarmanUK head coach said Mark Stoops. “My prayers go out to LeeAnne and the children, 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. “
Schlarman was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma in the summer of 2018. His determination as a Kentucky football player was reflected in his battle with the disease. He has gone on to coach countless treatments – his tenacity has inspired British players and everyone around him – and hasn’t missed a game before the last two UK contests. His last appearance on the sidelines was on Oct. 17 in Tennessee, when Stoops awarded Schlarman the match ball after the Wildcats’ victory.
“The UK Athletics family is deeply saddened by the passing of John schlarman,” said Mitch barnhart, UK Director of Athletics. “Over the past two years he has been an incredible inspiration. He taught people to live and showed us all what it means to be brave.
“John was a great husband and father, teacher and leader. He will be remembered for his love for his family, his dedication to his players and his excellence as a coach. Our prayers and our sincere condolences go out to his family and to all who knew and loved him. “
Schlarman was an original member of the Stoops staff in 2013, working tirelessly to help rebuild a football program he loved very much. Perfectly suited to Stoops’ blue-collar approach, Schlarman’s offensive line played a key role in the process which culminated with four consecutive bowl appearances of 2016-19. In 2018, the UK went 10-3, the school’s first 10-game winning season in 41 years, topped with a victory over Penn State in the VRBO Citrus Bowl. The UK followed with a win over Virginia Tech at the 2019 Belk Bowl.
Over the past four seasons, Kentucky have broken numerous school records, including one-season records for most rushing yards, most rushing touchdowns, and most rushing yards per attempt. In 2016 and 19, Schlarman Cats were semi-finalists for the Joe Moore Award for the country’s best offensive line.
Individually, guards Logan stenberg and Bunchy Stallings won All-America honors. Stenberg, Stallings, Jon Toth centers and Drake jacksonand tackle Landon Young received the All-SEC awards. Linemen have helped pave the way for a 1,000-yard rusher in each of the past four seasons, Stanley “Boom” Williams, Benny Snell Jr. and Lynn Bowden Jr. Snell hit the 1,000 yard mark three times and left the UK as the school’s all-time leader.
Schlarman originally came to the UK from Highlands High School in Ft. Thomas, Ky., Where he was an all-state offensive lineman. He has also performed in athletics and is a member of the Highlands Athletics Hall of Fame.
Schlarman joined the UK in 1993 and was a starter for four years from 1994 to 1997, earning All-SEC first-team honors as a senior. He was also a member of the SEC freshman squad in 1994 and was chosen the team’s most outstanding offensive lineman in 1995 and 1996. After his junior season, he was selected for the “Unsung Hero All-America Team” by the Column of college football.
Also an outstanding student, Schlarman was a member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll for three years and a finalist for Academic All-America in 1997. Reflecting his precise approach to the field, he earned a degree in mathematics.
Schlarman entered Bourbon County High School as a coach, coaching the defensive line in 1998 and 1999, helping guide the team to the state playoffs both seasons. He returned to the UK as a graduate assistant from 2000 to 2002, helping on the offensive line for all three seasons while earning his Masters. He also had sole responsibility for the tight ends of the 2002 campaign when the Wildcats posted a 7-5 record.
Schlarman returned to high school in 2003 as the Campbell County head coach for two seasons. He moved to Newport HS in 2005-06 and had a two-year record of 19-6, including two state playoff appearances and a district title. He was named District Coach of the Year in 2005.
Prior to returning to the UK, Schlarman coached the offensive line at Troy University from 2007-2012, helping Troy win or share four Sun Belt Conference championships and move up to three bowl games. Troy had one of the most productive offenses in the country during his tenure there. He coached eight All-Sun Belt first team caps.
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