Steve Sarkisian is a well-respected name in American football, known for his strategic acumen and leadership on the field. Currently, he serves as the head coach for the University of Texas at Austin football team, a role that has solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in college football. Sarkisian’s path from a collegiate quarterback to a high-profile coach is a testament to his dedication, skill, and resilience in the sport.
Personal Details
| 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. Raised in a family of eight, he was the youngest among his four sisters and two brothers. His upbringing was filled with sports and competition, which played a significant role in shaping his passion for athletics. Sarkisian’s family has deep roots in sports; his older brother, David Sarkisian, was a three-time All-American soccer player at Cal State Dominguez Hills. His parents, Seb and Sally Sarkisian, instilled a strong work ethic and love for sports in their children, which has been evident throughout Steve’s career.
Sarkisian’s ancestry is a blend of Armenian and Irish heritage. He grew up practicing Catholicism, a faith that has remained a part of his life. He attended West High School in Torrance, where he began to show promise as a quarterback, leading his school team and catching the eye of collegiate scouts.
Education and Playing Career
After completing high school, Steve Sarkisian initially attended El Camino College, where he excelled as a quarterback and earned his associate’s degree in General Studies in 1994. His performance at El Camino College paved the way for him to transfer to Brigham Young University (BYU). At BYU, Sarkisian continued to develop his skills as a quarterback and became a standout player. During his senior year in 1996, he led the nation in passing efficiency with a rating of 173.6, which remains one of the top marks in NCAA history. That same year, he guided the BYU Cougars to the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship and a victory in the Cotton Bowl, solidifying his status as a talented quarterback.
Sarkisian’s college career culminated in being named the WAC Offensive Player of the Year in 1996, a significant achievement that highlighted his ability to lead and perform under pressure. Following his success at BYU, Sarkisian spent three seasons with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the Canadian Football League (CFL) from 1997 to 1999. Despite a strong collegiate and CFL career, he did not break into the NFL, which eventually led him to transition into coaching.
Coaching Career and Achievements
Steve Sarkisian’s coaching career began shortly after his stint in the CFL, where he decided to leverage his knowledge and experience to mentor younger athletes. His journey in coaching started with roles at his alma mater, BYU, and later at the University of Southern California (USC), where he contributed to developing future NFL talent. His experience as a quarterback provided him with unique insights into the game, which he used to build a reputation as an offensive strategist.
Sarkisian went on to serve as the head coach at the University of Washington from 2009 to 2013, where he was credited with revitalizing the football program. He then returned to USC as head coach from 2014 to 2015. Despite some challenges during his tenure at USC, Sarkisian’s ability to lead and manage a team did not go unnoticed.
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 have aimed to rebuild their status as a powerhouse in collegiate football.
Personal Life: Marriage and Family
Steve Sarkisian’s personal life has seen its share of public attention, especially regarding his relationships. He was first married to his high school sweetheart, Stephanie Sarkisian, in 1997. The couple shared nearly two decades together and have 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 and provided a Land Rover to Stephanie.
In 2020, Sarkisian married Loreal Smith, a former track athlete turned stylist. The couple has been together since, though they do not have children together. Loreal has been a supportive partner, often seen by Steve’s side at games and public events, showcasing their strong relationship.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2023, Steve Sarkisian’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This wealth primarily comes from his career as a player and coach, supplemented by bonuses and other contractual agreements. His current role as the head coach of the University of Texas comes with a lucrative salary, making him the 30th highest-paid college football coach. His financial success is a result of his strategic mindset and ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of collegiate sports.
Social Media Presence and Influence
Steve Sarkisian is also active on social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where he engages with his followers and shares insights about his professional journey and personal experiences. With over 50,000 followers on Instagram and more than 138,000 followers on X, he 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. Sarkisian continues to shape the future of college football, mentoring young athletes and contributing to the growth of the sport.
