Steve Sarkisian is a prominent figure in American football, best known for his strategic leadership as the head coach of the University of Texas at Austin football team. Over the years, Sarkisian has built a reputation as one of the most influential coaches in college football, thanks to his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game. Beyond his professional achievements, Steve Sarkisian’s personal life, especially his marriage to his wife, Loreal Smith, has also garnered attention.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steve Sarkisian |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1974 |
| Age (as of 2023) | 49 years |
| Birthplace | Torrance, California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | University of Southern California (USC), Brigham Young University (BYU) |
| Height | 1.91 m (6 feet 3 inches) |
| Profession | Football Coach, Former Football Player |
| Current Team | University of Texas at Austin |
| Parents | Seb and Sally Sarkisian |
| Siblings | Six (including three-time All-American brother, David) |
| Wife | Loreal Smith (current), Stephanie Sarkisian (ex-wife) |
| Children | Taylor, Ashley, Brady |
| Salary | $5.6 million annually |
| Net Worth | $5 million (as of 2023) |
| Social Media | Instagram (50.4k followers), X (Twitter) (138.4k followers) |
| Religion | Catholicism |
Early Life and Family Background
Steve Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974, in Torrance, California, to Seb and Sally Sarkisian. Growing up in a family of eight, Steve was the youngest among four sisters and two brothers. His upbringing was filled with sports, as his family had a strong passion for athletics. His older brother, David Sarkisian, was a three-time All-American soccer player at Cal State Dominguez Hills. Raised in a Catholic household with Armenian and Irish heritage, Steve was instilled with a strong work ethic and love for sports from a young age. He attended West High School in Torrance, where he showed promise as a quarterback, setting the stage for his future in football.
Education and Playing Career
After high school, Steve Sarkisian attended El Camino College, where he excelled as a quarterback and earned an associate’s degree in General Studies in 1994. His outstanding performance led him to transfer to Brigham Young University (BYU), where he continued to shine as a quarterback. In his senior year in 1996, Sarkisian led the nation in passing efficiency and guided BYU to the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship and a Cotton Bowl victory. His exceptional performance earned him the WAC Offensive Player of the Year award. Despite a successful collegiate career, Sarkisian’s professional playing career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) was short-lived, leading him to transition into coaching.
Coaching Career and Achievements
Steve Sarkisian’s coaching career began shortly after his CFL stint, initially taking on roles at BYU and later at the University of Southern California (USC), where he developed future NFL talent. Sarkisian then served as the head coach at the University of Washington from 2009 to 2013, where he was credited with revitalizing the football program. He returned to USC as head coach from 2014 to 2015, where he faced some challenges but still demonstrated his ability to lead and manage a team effectively.
In 2021, Sarkisian was appointed as the head coach at the University of Texas at Austin. His leadership has brought renewed energy to the program, and he is currently among the highest-paid coaches in college football, earning $5.6 million annually. Under his guidance, the Texas Longhorns aim to rebuild their status as a powerhouse in collegiate football.
Steve Sarkisian Wife: Loreal Smith
Steve Sarkisian is currently married to Loreal Smith, a former track athlete turned stylist. The couple married in 2020 after Sarkisian’s divorce from his first wife, Stephanie Sarkisian, in 2016. Loreal Smith, who has a background in athletics herself, has been a supportive partner throughout Sarkisian’s career. Often seen by his side at games and public events, Loreal plays a crucial role in Steve’s life, supporting him both personally and professionally.
First Marriage: Stephanie Sarkisian
Before marrying Loreal Smith, Steve Sarkisian was married to Stephanie Sarkisian, his high school sweetheart. The couple was married in 1997 and shared nearly two decades together, during which they had three children: Taylor, Ashley, and Brady. Their marriage ended in 2016, and as part of their divorce settlement, Steve made a one-time payment of $293,000 to Stephanie and provided her with a Land Rover.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2023, Steve Sarkisian’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million. His wealth primarily comes from his extensive career in coaching, supplemented by bonuses and other contractual agreements. Sarkisian’s current role as the head coach of the University of Texas brings a lucrative salary of $5.6 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
Social Media Presence and Influence
Steve Sarkisian is active on social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). He uses these platforms to engage with his followers and share insights about his professional journey and personal experiences. With over 50,000 followers on Instagram and more than 138,000 followers on X, Sarkisian remains a popular figure among fans and aspiring athletes who look up to him as a mentor and inspiration.
Legacy and Impact
Steve Sarkisian’s journey from a collegiate quarterback to a high-profile head coach is marked by resilience, adaptability, and a deep passion for football. His coaching philosophy revolves around discipline, hard work, and fostering a competitive spirit among his players. Through his leadership, Sarkisian continues to shape the future of college football, mentoring young athletes and contributing to the growth of the sport.
In conclusion, Steve Sarkisian’s personal and professional life highlights his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. His marriage to Loreal Smith showcases his ability to maintain a strong personal foundation amidst the pressures of a high-profile career. As he continues to lead the Texas Longhorns, Sarkisian remains a figure to watch in the world of collegiate football.
