Georgia Bulldogs Coach Kirby Smart Mourns Father’s Passing
Georgia Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart is navigating the pain of losing his father, Sonny Smart, who passed away at the age of 76 on January 4th. Sonny’s death came as a result of complications following hip surgery after a fall in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve. This tragic loss has deeply affected Kirby Smart as he grapples with the emotional toll of his father’s passing.
A Father’s Legacy: Sonny Smart’s Impact on Kirby’s Coaching Career
Sonny Smart was not only a beloved father but also a respected high school football coach in Georgia. He dedicated over 20 years to coaching at Bainbridge High School and Rabun County High, leaving a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored. Kirby Smart credits his father for instilling in him valuable lessons that have shaped his coaching philosophy and success on the field.
“He taught me so much about the right way to handle things,” Kirby shared. “Control the controllables. The moment’s never too big if you’re prepared. He was a very wise man, a man of few words, and I’ve tried to follow his mantra as a coach.”
Kirby’s experiences playing under his father’s guidance in South Georgia have influenced his coaching style and core beliefs. Despite the challenges of watching his parents age and face health struggles, Kirby acknowledges the profound impact his father’s teachings have had on his career.
Personal Reflections: Kirby Smart’s Emotional Journey
In the midst of mourning his father’s passing, Kirby Smart has opened up about the difficulties of watching his parents grow older and the pain of their absence during significant life moments. Despite the heartache of his parents’ health concerns preventing them from attending the College Football Playoff (CFP) national title game, Kirby found strength in the values instilled by his father.
“It hurts me that he and my mum won’t be here,” Kirby expressed. “But I know it’s the right decision for him. Nothing worse than watching your parents grow old. It’s like taxes—it’s inevitable. They’re going to get old. And that’s been tough.”
Kirby’s ability to lead the Bulldogs to victory in the national championship game amidst personal challenges is a testament to his resilience and the legacy of his father’s teachings. Sonny Smart’s impact on Kirby’s life and coaching career continues to resonate as he carries forward the values passed down to him.
As Kirby Smart honors his father’s memory and leads Georgia’s football program, he embodies the enduring lessons of resilience, preparation, and composure under pressure that define his father’s legacy. Sonny Smart’s influence lives on in Kirby’s achievements and the guiding principles he imparts to his team, shaping the future of Georgia Bulldogs football.
