Steve Sarkisian: From Quarterback to Head Coach
Steve Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974, and grew up in Torrance, California. His early interest in sports was evident, and he excelled in both baseball and football during his high school years at West High School.1
Sarkisian’s athletic prowess earned him a place at El Camino College, a junior college where he could further develop his skills as a quarterback.
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College Football at Brigham Young University
Sarkisian’s impressive performance at El Camino College caught the attention of Brigham Young University (BYU), known for its strong football program. Sarkisian transferred to BYU, where he played as a quarterback from 1995 to 1996.
Under the guidance of coach LaVell Edwards, Sarkisian thrived, leading the Cougars to a 14-1 season in 1996. That year, he threw for over 4,000 yards and 33 touchdowns, earning recognition as a first-team All-American and the Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year.
Professional Career in the Canadian Football League
After his successful college career, Sarkisian went on to play professionally with the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL).
His time in the CFL, although brief, provided him with valuable experience and a broader perspective on the game. Sarkisian played two seasons with the Roughriders, from 1997 to 1999, before transitioning into coaching.
Transition to Coaching
Sarkisian’s transition from player to coach began at El Camino College, where he returned as a quarterbacks coach in 2000. His passion for the game and understanding of quarterback play made him a natural fit for the role.
His coaching career quickly progressed, and he moved on to the University of Southern California (USC) as an offensive assistant under head coach Pete Carroll.
Coaching Career at USC
During his time at USC, Sarkisian worked closely with quarterbacks and was instrumental in the development of several future NFL stars, including Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, and Mark Sanchez.2
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He served in various capacities, including quarterbacks coach, offensive coordinator, and assistant head coach. His success at USC helped establish his reputation as an offensive strategist and quarterbacks guru.
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Steve Sarkisian’s Coaching Career: From College to the NFL and Back
After concluding his professional playing career, Steve Sarkisian transitioned into coaching, beginning a journey that would take him through college football’s highest ranks and into the NFL.
Sarkisian’s coaching career began in earnest when he joined the University of Southern California (USC) in 2001 as an offensive assistant under head coach Pete Carroll. His return to USC reunited him with his former coach, Norm Chow, who was brought in as the offensive coordinator.
Development as a Quarterbacks Coach
Sarkisian’s initial role at USC allowed him to develop his coaching skills and gain valuable experience. In 2002, he was promoted to quarterbacks coach, a position that showcased his ability to mentor and develop young talent. Working with quarterbacks like Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, Sarkisian’s influence was evident.
Palmer went on to win the Heisman Trophy in 2002, largely due to the guidance and coaching provided by Sarkisian and Chow. Leinart followed with his own Heisman-winning season in 2004, cementing Sarkisian’s reputation as an exceptional quarterbacks coach.
Brief Stint in the NFL with the Oakland Raiders
Sarkisian’s success at USC caught the attention of the NFL, leading to his appointment as the quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders in 2004. This role marked Sarkisian’s first foray into professional football coaching.3
Although his time with the Raiders was brief, it provided him with a broader perspective on the game and an understanding of the differences between college and professional football.
Return to USC and Offensive Coordinator Role
- In 2005, Sarkisian returned to USC, rejoining Pete Carroll’s coaching staff. This time, he took on the dual role of assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach, further solidifying his expertise in developing quarterbacks and offensive strategies.
- In 2007, Sarkisian was promoted to offensive coordinator, where he continued to innovate and lead one of the most potent offenses in college football.
- His schemes were instrumental in maintaining USC’s dominance in the Pac-10 conference and keeping the team in national championship contention.
- In 2009, Sarkisian accepted the head coaching position at the University of Washington, a program that had been struggling in recent years. Taking over a team that had gone winless the previous season, Sarkisian faced the daunting task of rebuilding the Huskies.
- He implemented a new offensive scheme and focused on recruiting top talent, quickly turning the program around. In his first season, he led the Huskies to a 5-7 record, a significant improvement from the previous year.
Steve Sarkisian’s Net Worth
Steve Sarkisian, the head football coach for the Texas Longhorns, has had a storied career in college football, which has significantly contributed to his financial success. As of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
Everything Steve Sarkisian said to the media on national signing day https://t.co/FP3qUSf3En pic.twitter.com/jtKrHnH929
— Longhorns Wire (@LonghornsWire) February 9, 2024
This figure, while substantial, reflects not only his earnings from coaching but also the ups and downs of his career trajectory.
Early Career and Initial Earnings
Steve Sarkisian began his coaching career in earnest at USC, where he first served as an offensive assistant and then as quarterbacks coach. His early roles laid the groundwork for his financial success. However, it was his move to the University of Washington in 2009 that marked his first significant leap in earnings.
As the head coach of the Huskies, Sarkisian’s initial contract was valued at $1.75 million per year. Over the years, his salary increased, reaching $2.3 million by 2013. These earnings were a testament to his growing reputation and success in turning around the Washington football program.
Success and Financial Growth at USC
In 2014, Sarkisian returned to USC as the head coach, a role that further enhanced his financial standing. During his tenure with the Trojans, his annual salary was reportedly around $3.2 million.
This period marked a high point in his career financially, reflecting the significant responsibilities and expectations placed upon him at one of college football’s most prestigious programs.
Challenges and Recovery
Despite his on-field success, Sarkisian faced personal challenges that impacted his career and earnings. His dismissal from USC in 2015 due to issues related to alcohol led to a temporary setback. During this period, Sarkisian focused on recovery and rebuilding his personal and professional life.
Resurgence with Alabama
Sarkisian’s return to coaching came under the mentorship of Nick Saban at the University of Alabama. Initially joining as an offensive analyst, he quickly proved his value and was promoted to offensive coordinator.
His time at Alabama was marked by significant success, including a national championship in 2020. Although the exact figures of his earnings at Alabama are not publicly detailed, it is known that high-level coordinators in top programs like Alabama can earn substantial salaries, often exceeding $1 million annually.
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Steve Sarkisian’s Family
Steve Sarkisian, currently the head football coach of the Texas Longhorns, hails from a sports-oriented family. His parents, Seb and Sally Sarkisian, played pivotal roles in shaping his early life and instilling in him a love for sports.
Steve is the youngest in a family of six children, which includes four sisters and two brothers, all of whom have been active in sports.
Parents: Seb and Sally Sarkisian
Seb and Sally Sarkisian are the proud parents of Steve and his siblings. Seb, in particular, had a significant influence on Steve’s sporting career. While there is limited public information on Seb’s own sports involvement, it is clear that both parents supported and encouraged their children in pursuing athletic endeavors.
Siblings and Athletic Background
Steve’s elder brother, David Sarkisian, stands out with his impressive achievements in soccer. David was a three-time All-American at Cal State Dominguez Hills, showcasing the athletic talent that runs in the family. The other siblings also participated in various sports during their school years, although their specific achievements are not as widely documented.
The Sarkisian household was evidently one where sports were a significant part of family life. This environment likely fostered Steve’s competitive spirit and his eventual career in sports, particularly football.
Education and Early Life
- Steve Sarkisian attended West High School in Torrance, California. Here, he not only excelled academically but also began to make a name for himself in sports.
- His high school years laid the foundation for his future in football, with his performances catching the eye of college scouts.
- After graduating from West High School, Steve enrolled at El Camino College, where he continued to pursue both his academic and athletic interests.
- He earned an associate’s degree in General Studies in 1994, furthering his education while honing his skills on the football field.
Personal Life
Steve Sarkisian, the renowned football coach, hails from Torrance, California. Born on March 8, 1974, he is the youngest of seven children in a large, diverse family. His father, a significant influence in his life, migrated to the United States from Tehran, Iran, bringing with him a rich cultural heritage that blended with Sarkisian’s Armenian and Irish ancestry.
This multicultural background played a pivotal role in shaping Sarkisian’s worldview and personal values. Growing up in a big family also meant that young Steve learned the importance of teamwork and resilience early on, traits that would serve him well in his future career.
Cultural and Religious Influences
Raised in a Catholic household, Sarkisian’s faith has been a cornerstone in his life. The values and principles instilled in him through his religious upbringing have influenced his personal and professional decisions.
His Catholic faith provided a moral compass and a sense of community, which he often credits for his strong leadership qualities and ethical approach to coaching.
First Marriage and Family Life
In April 2015, news broke that Sarkisian and his first wife, Stephanie, had filed for divorce. The couple had been together for several years and shared three children—two daughters and a son.
Despite the end of their marriage, Sarkisian has maintained a close relationship with his children, emphasizing the importance of family support and presence in their lives. The divorce was a challenging period for Sarkisian, but it also marked a time of personal growth and introspection.
Second Marriage to Loreal Smith
- After his divorce, Sarkisian found love again with Loreal Smith, a former collegiate track star and coach. The couple’s shared passion for sports and coaching provided a strong foundation for their relationship.
- Loreal’s background in athletics and coaching complements Sarkisian’s career, making them a dynamic duo both personally and professionally.
- Their marriage symbolizes a new chapter in Sarkisian’s life, filled with mutual support and shared aspirations.
- Balancing a demanding career in football coaching with family life has always been a priority for Sarkisian.
- His commitment to his children and wife is evident in how he manages his time and responsibilities. Sarkisian often speaks about the importance of being present for his family, despite the rigorous demands of his profession.
- This balance is crucial to his well-being and success, both on and off the field.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Steve Sarkisian?
Ans: Steve Sarkisian is an American football coach and former player. He is currently the head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team. Sarkisian has held various coaching positions at the college and professional levels, including as an offensive coordinator and head coach.
2. What is Steve Sarkisian’s Age?
Ans: Steve Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974. As of 2024, he is 50 years old.
3. What is Steve Sarkisian’s Career?
Ans: Steve Sarkisian began his coaching career after playing quarterback at Brigham Young University (BYU) and briefly in the Canadian Football League. He has served as an offensive coordinator at prestigious programs like USC and Alabama. Sarkisian has also been the head coach at Washington and USC before taking the head coaching position at Texas in 2021.
4. What is Steve Sarkisian’s Net Worth?
Ans: Steve Sarkisian’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $5 million to $10 million. His income primarily comes from his coaching salary, bonuses, and endorsements.
5. What is Known About Steve Sarkisian’s Personal Life?
Ans: Steve Sarkisian has been open about his personal struggles, including overcoming alcoholism. He has been married twice; his first marriage to Stephanie Sarkisian ended in divorce, and he later married Loreal Smith Sarkisian, a former college track star and coach. Sarkisian is known for his resilience and commitment to his coaching career despite personal challenges.
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