Trump to give Medal of Freedom to Lou Holtz in closed ceremony after he called president ‘outstanding leader’

Holtz retired from coaching in 2004 after a 33-year career in college football

Donald Trump will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to legendary college football coach Lou Holtz on Thursday.

Mr Holtz spoke at the Republican National Convention in August and described the president as an “outstanding leader” and a “consistent winner”.

In September Mr Trump announced his intention to give Mr Holtz the award, with the White House confirming the timing on Wednesday.

The medal is the nation’s highest civilian honour, and is awarded by the president to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

“America recognises Lou Holtz as one of the greatest football coaches of all time for his unmatched accomplishments on the gridiron, but he is also a philanthropist, author, and true American patriot,” a statement from the White House reads.

Mr Holtz retired from coaching in 2004 after a 33-year career in which he coached teams at Notre Dame, North Carolina State, and the University of Arkansas.

He also spent one season in the NFL coaching the New York Jets.

The White House did not reveal details of the event, but it is believed that it will be held in private due to Covid-19 restrictions. There would usually be a ceremony with many people present.

Mr Holtz tested positive for Covid-19 in November, telling ABC Columbia that he was recovering in an interview on 19 November.

Speaking on Fox News’ Fox & Friends on Thursday morning, Mr Holtz said he was humbled to receive the award and that there are many more people more worthy than him, but that he was excited to receive it from the president.

He also said that he was sad that there would not be four more years of the Trump presidency.