The Wolfpacker: An Independent Magazine Covering NC State Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1547338
TRACKING THE PACK NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 ■ 11 were spent at NC State, where I built lifelong friendships and a brotherhood, all because of this man. "We lost an icon, and it hurt. But the mark he left on my life and my team- mates' lives will live on forever." Bill Cowher, a linebacker who starred for Amato from 1975-78 with 371 total tackles (eighth most in program history) before eventually becoming a Hall of Fame coach with the Pittsburgh Steel- ers, posted his reflection on social media shortly after the death was announced. "Thank you for your influence and guidance in shaping me as a young LB from Western PA coming down to [NC State]," Cowher wrote. "You showed me tough love when I needed it and taught me commitment, sacrifice and team- work. You'll be missed, but your legacy will NEVER be forgotten!" Amato was fired by NC State following a 3-9 season in 2006. He eventually re- tired from coaching in 2018 and settled in Raleigh following nine seasons at Florida State and Akron as a high-ranking assis- tant. And once he was back in the city he made most of his career in, Amato wasn't able to shake the football bug. He yearned to be around the sport, so much so that he called Doeren and asked if he could sit in on meetings just to lis- ten. Doeren didn't hesitate, and Amato made his presence known throughout the Murphy Center from time to time. "He was just a guy that mentored coaches," Doeren said. "I look up to my elders in this sport, I've always gotten a lot of wisdom from guys that have been in it longer than me, and Chuck was one of them." Amato's glasses and shoes will always be iconic in Raleigh, but his lasting leg- acy will extend beyond those tangible objects. Instead, he'll be remembered for what he did for others — and his selfless attitude of pouring into those he wanted to see succeed in the sport. There aren't many coaches that can be said about, but Amato is one. He'll forever be the man that mentored oth- ers, using his infectious personality without looking for anything in return. "Just the enthusiasm that he had … You can't help but talk about Chuck without [mentioning] the bravado," Diaz said. "He made people believe. He made his players believe." ■ A PERCENTAGE OF EVERY HOME SALE GOES TO SUPPORT ALZHEIMER'S RESEARCH AND CARE. McKeeHomesNC.com | 910-672-7296 PROUD TO SUPPORT THE NC STATE WOLFPACK Faye eville | Raleigh | Pinehurst | Wilmington Amato, a former Wolfpack linebacker and ACC champion wrestler, left a lasting legacy through his mentorship of players and coaches. PHOTO COURTESY NC STATE ATHLETICS