For the first time this decade, the search is on for a new head football coach at Notre Dame. Sean Clancy has stepped down the leader of the Irish, saying simply, “Everything comes to an end.” “It was a great ride, it was a lot of fun,” the always affable Clancy continued. “I loved the kid s; it was a great experience. God’s gonna open up another door for me and I’m gonna walk through it.” He added with a laugh, “Hopefully it’s not the last door.” Clancy will continue as a school guidance counselor and head of the ND Catholic Athletes for Christ organization, which will be staging a Polar Bear Plunge Feb. 22 on campus. “The administration extends its sincere appreciation to Coach Clancy for his seven years of dedicated service to the football program,” Notre Dame wrote in a press release. “While he is stepping away from his coaching duties, he is remaining a steadfast supporter for the student body.” After seven seasons as an Irish assistant, Clancy was named interim coach in 2019 and led ND to a 10-1 record and the WJFL Capitol Division title. He produced a 45-25 record including another 10-1 mark in 2023 when the Irish had a perfect regular season. He had winning records every year except for 2021 (4-5) and this past season (4-7). But the wins and losses were secondary to the coach. “I really am proud of some things,” he said. “There are certain kids that always stick out that came into Notre Dame without the strongest academic foundation and we were able to help them on their journey to college. I would say helping those kids is always great, just working with so many hard-working dedicated faith-filled kids. It’s been a great experience. “I just really enjoyed the kids, and what goes along with the body, mind and experience. I hope the kids got as much out of it as I have gotten.” Long-time assistant Jim Treacy has been named interim head coach as Notre Dame begins “an immediate search” for the new man. “We are grateful to Coach Clancy for the stability and leadership he has provided during his time as Head Coach,” Notre Dame President Ken Jennings said in the release. “As we move forward, we are focused on identifying a coach who will build upon that foundation and continue to elevate the experience for our student-athletes.” While Clancy ponders his next move, he is excited to follow the numerous players his program has sent to colleges. “Maybe I can see them play now,” he said. “I think I saw my own sons play four times in four years. You make sacrifices. But I really enjoyed it.” ...read more read less