Chuck Amato, the former head football coach at North Carolina State University and longtime assistant coach at Florida State University, has died at the age of 80. Amato passed away early Monday at his home in Raleigh, North Carolina, under hospice care, the university announced.

Amato’s coaching career was marked by significant accomplishments both on and off the field. As head coach of the N.C. State Wolfpack from 2000 to 2006, he led the team to an 11-win season in 2002—the only season in the program’s history with double-digit wins. His tenure coincided with the rise of quarterback Philip Rivers, who starred for the Wolfpack before going on to a successful NFL career. Amato compiled a 49-37 overall record, won five bowl games, and was credited with ending Florida State’s long-standing unbeaten streak in Atlantic Coast Conference home games in 2001, handing the Seminoles their first ACC home loss since joining the league in 1992.

Born in Easton, Pennsylvania, Amato played linebacker at N.C. State from 1965 to 1967, earning an Atlantic Coast Conference title in 1965. He was also an ACC champion wrestler. After a nine-season stint as an assistant coach at N.C. State, he joined Florida State in the 1990s as a defensive assistant under legendary head coach Bobby Bowden, contributing to national championship teams in 1993 and 1999. Following the 1999 national title, Amato returned to N.C. State as head coach.

Amato’s coaching style was characterized by a larger-than-life personality, known for his distinctive sideline attire that included flashy sunglasses and sneakers. His impact extended beyond game day, as he played a pivotal role in mentoring players and coaches. Notable figures paying tribute included current N.C. State head coach Dave Doeren, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, retired NFL coach Bill Cowher, and Duke University coach Manny Diaz. Diaz credited Amato for jump-starting his coaching career as a Florida State graduate assistant.

Despite successes on the field, Amato was dismissed after a disappointing 3-9 record in 2006. He later rejoined Florida State for several years before serving as associate head coach at the University of Akron prior to retiring in 2018. Amato had battled throat cancer in recent years, which ultimately led to the loss of his voice.

Amato’s legacy is remembered for his contributions to both North Carolina State and Florida State football, as well as his enduring influence on the coaching community and the players he guided throughout his career.