Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team, and his wife, Loreal Sarkisian, have announced their decision to divorce after four years of marriage. The couple took to Instagram on Friday afternoon to share the news with their followers, citing the pressures of their careers as a primary factor in their separation. While both expressed respect and affection for one another, the demands of their professional lives ultimately made it challenging to maintain their marriage.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steve Sarkisian |
| Birthplace | Torrance, California, United States |
| Ethnicity | Armenian and Irish |
| Current Role | Head Coach, Texas Longhorns Football |
| First Wife | Stephanie Sarkisian (Married 1997; Divorced 2015) |
| Second Wife | Loreal Sarkisian (Married 2020; Divorced 2024) |
| Children | Ashley, Brady, and Taylor Sarkisian |
| Ashley Sarkisian | NYU graduate, major in International Relations |
| Brady Sarkisian | Football player, University of Texas, Sociology major |
| Taylor Sarkisian | Youngest child, maintains a private profile |
| Relationship Status | Recently divorced from Loreal Sarkisian |
A Whirlwind Romance and Marriage
Steve Sarkisian and Loreal Smith first crossed paths during Steve’s tenure as the offensive coordinator for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Loreal, a former collegiate track athlete with a vibrant personality, quickly became a notable presence in Steve’s life. Their relationship blossomed into a whirlwind romance, leading to their marriage in 2020. This union marked a new chapter for both, with Loreal taking on the role of a supportive partner during Sarkisian’s career shift to head coach at the University of Texas.
Loreal, often referred to as the “First Lady of Texas Football” by Longhorns fans, became known for her enthusiastic support for the team and her unique style on game days. She seamlessly integrated into the Texas football community, adding her own flair and charisma to the environment surrounding the team. However, the couple’s relationship faced increasing strain as their individual career commitments grew, culminating in their recent decision to part ways.
Steve Sarkisian’s Family Background
Born in Torrance, California, Steve Sarkisian comes from a large family, being the youngest of seven children. His heritage is a blend of Armenian and Irish roots, which shaped his upbringing. Sarkisian’s first marriage to Stephanie Sarkisian spanned nearly two decades before ending in divorce in 2015. During their time together, Steve and Stephanie had three children: Ashley, Taylor, and Brady.
Despite the challenges of a public divorce, Sarkisian remained committed to his role as a father. His three children have been an essential part of his life, providing him with a sense of balance and purpose amid the demands of his coaching career.
A Closer Look at Steve Sarkisian’s Children
Steve Sarkisian’s three children with his first wife, Stephanie, have grown into remarkable individuals, each pursuing their own paths.
- Ashley Sarkisian, the eldest, recently graduated from New York University with a degree in international relations. She complemented her studies with minors in Spanish and Portuguese, demonstrating a passion for global affairs and languages.
- Brady Sarkisian is following in his father’s athletic footsteps. A promising three-star football prospect, Brady has committed to the University of Texas as a walk-on for the 2023 recruiting class. He is currently studying Sociology and is known for his dedication to both academics and athletics.
- Taylor Sarkisian, the youngest, remains more private compared to her siblings. Referred to affectionately as “Papa Steve’s baby girl,” she enjoys a close relationship with her father and is cherished by her family for her warm personality and loving nature.
The Sarkisians’ Relationship and Career Demands
Steve and Loreal Sarkisian’s relationship began with a shared understanding of the challenges that come with high-profile careers in sports. Loreal, with her own background as a former track star, adapted quickly to the fast-paced life of a college football coach’s spouse. Yet, as Steve took on the role of leading the Texas Longhorns, the demands on both their time and energy increased.
While the couple shared many happy moments, including Loreal’s visible presence at games and her efforts to engage with the Texas community, the intense schedules and professional commitments became overwhelming. Their separation underscores the complexities many couples face when balancing personal relationships with public and demanding careers.
Moving Forward
Both Steve and Loreal have expressed their intention to continue supporting each other in their future endeavors. Their decision to part ways comes with mutual respect, reflecting their understanding of the unique pressures their careers entail. Steve remains focused on his responsibilities as the Texas Longhorns head coach, while Loreal is likely to continue building her own brand and presence in the fashion and sports worlds.
Conclusion
The announcement of their divorce marks the end of a chapter for Steve and Loreal Sarkisian. Their relationship, though brief in the public eye, was characterized by a genuine connection and shared experiences. As they move forward separately, both remain committed to their individual paths and their roles as influential figures in their respective fields.