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Steve Sarkisian’s Weight Loss Journey
Steve Sarkisian’s weight loss journey has become a captivating narrative for fans and observers alike in recent years, drawing attention and sparking interest. This transformation is more than just a cosmetic shift; it is closely entwined with his health journey, especially in the aftermath of a significant turning point in his life and well-being.1
The Aftermath of Heart Surgery
Successful Heart Surgery:
Following his successful heart surgery, which marked a crucial turning point, the scrutiny surrounding Steve Sarkisian’s life increased. Although the exact amount of weight he lost remains unknown, the apparent transformation in his physique is undeniable.
Comparison to Coaching Days:
Comparing his current physique to his previous coaching days reveals a dramatic slimming down. This physical transformation is a visible manifestation of his commitment to health, particularly in the context of his heart problem diagnosis.
Steve Sarkisian Before and After
Professionally and Personally Transformative:
Steve Sarkisian’s journey to becoming the head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns has been marked by remarkable transformations in both his professional and personal lives. From his early coaching days to his current leadership role, Sarkisian has matured into a seasoned figure in the world of collegiate football.
Coaching Career Highlights:
Sarkisian’s coaching career, vibrant and eclectic, began as an assistant coach and evolved with notable periods at prestigious programs such as USC, Washington, and Alabama. These experiences have contributed to his recognition as a prominent figure in the sport.
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Sarkisian’s Resilience and Leadership Style
Teaching Style and Success:
Sarkisian’s coaching perspective emphasizes innovation and adaptability, crucial elements that have contributed to his success. His transformative journey is most visible in his resilience in the face of health issues, particularly his heart aneurysm diagnosis and subsequent successful surgery.
Personal Development and Leadership:
The noticeable weight loss resulting from his health-conscious choices became a symbol of Sarkisian’s dedication to personal development. Beyond his coaching abilities, Sarkisian serves as a role model for perseverance and continuous self-improvement, offering knowledge and a reinvigorated sense of purpose to the University of Texas Longhorns.
Positive Team Culture:
Sarkisian’s leadership style blends strategic acumen with a genuine connection to his players, fostering a positive team culture. The Longhorns’ fan base views him not only as a coach but also as a symbol of resilience and continuous self-improvement.
Steve Sarkisian’s Recovery Journey
Back in July, University of Alabama assistant Steve Sarkisian underwent successful heart surgery to correct a congenital cardiovascular anomaly issue. Now, the coach is back on the practice field gearing up for his second season as offensive coordinator at the Capstone.2
He participated in a Zoom meeting Tuesday evening to share with the media about how he discovered he needed surgery and what the recovery has been like.
Discovering the Health Issue
“I think it is one of the values of being at the University of Alabama,” Sarkisian said. “We do an extensive executive physical, and Coach Saban is the one who really promotes that. For me, going and doing the physical, you think being 46 years old it is kind of ho-hum.
The tests detected something in my heart and through further tests recognized I had to have surgery. I think, for the most part, Dr. Richardson was fantastic.”
Post-Surgery Reflections
- “What comes out of it is, we can feel healthy, I felt great, and at the end of the day, I had to have open-heart surgery. You try to surround yourself with the best people. Coming out of the surgery, I have tried to follow the protocols, for my doctor, and the steps I am supposed to be doing. This week is going to be eight weeks out on Thursday, and then, the protocols here at the University.
- “I do not know if there is anyone who abides by the COVID rules we have more than me. All in all, I feel healthy. I feel great. It allowed me to lose some weight, so I feel good about that. I am a little lighter on my feet at practice.
- “I am very fortunate I had that physical. Very fortunate I had a great doctor to do the surgery and the people who surrounded me. At the end of the day, life goes on. I feel very good.”
Heightened Awareness
- Having a heightened awareness now, Sarkisian knows the importance of following safety guidelines and having your vitals checked is especially important in the COVID-19 era.
- “Well, there are some pretty simple rules that if we all just buy into, and that’s all I’ve been trying to do, life really isn’t that difficult,” Sarkisian said. “Wear a mask.
- Wash your hands and watch your distance from the next person. At that point, if we could all just do those things, like my life is pretty comfortable.”
 Commitment to Alabama
Sarkisian also had a few opportunities to become a head coach again at the Power Five level, namely Colorado, but the decision to stay at Alabama had a lot to do with what Saban and the school have done for him.3
Flattering Offers
“You know, it’s always flattering when people express interest in you,” Sarkisian said. “And I had, obviously, a couple of schools that wanted to interview and have those discussions but at the end of the day, this is a special place and I came here for stability in my career.”
Loyalty to Alabama
“I was coming off of my two-year stint at Alabama. I had already left Coach Saban once in 2016, and I just felt like the timing wasn’t right. He’s been too good to me. Alabama’s been too good to me. I love these players. The administration has been tremendous so all in all, we’ve got a lot left to accomplish.”
The Right Decision
- “For me personally, this just felt like the right thing at the right time. This is where I need to be right now in my life. I’m with a really good mentor.
- I learn so much every single day, and it’s a joy coaching the players I get to coach. So all in all, the decision is always a little difficult when you have to make a decision to be a head coach or not when you’re an assistant but this one was probably a little easier than others because of where we are, the University of Alabama is a special place, and we’ve got great players.
- t’s an awesome administration. Tremendous fans and we’ve got a chance to be pretty good this year and in years to come.”
- Steve Sarkisian’s wife, Loreal Smith, has been a crucial figure in both his personal and professional life since their marriage in 2020. Her impact on Texas football has earned her the endearing title of ‘The First Lady of Texas Football’ among Longhorns fans.
II. Loreal Smith Sarkisian
Loreal Smith Sarkisian, born on October 12, 1985, in Tallahassee, Florida, is not merely the wife of esteemed football coach Steve Sarkisian. She has carved out her own identity as a professional stylist and philanthropist, gaining recognition beyond her role in the sports world.
III. The First Lady of Texas Football
Loreal’s presence at Texas football games is synonymous with impeccable fashion. Affectionately known as the ‘First Lady of Texas Football,’ her keen sense of style has captured the attention of fans. Her fashion influence extends beyond the field, as she has initiated her own styling business, seamlessly blending her profession with her passion for fashion.
With a substantial Instagram following of 56K, Loreal’s influence in the fashion industry is undeniable. Her ability to merge her impressive career with her fashion prowess showcases the multidimensional nature of her persona.
IV. Supportive Partner and Career Resurgence
Beyond her contributions to the fashion world, Loreal played a pivotal role in Steve Sarkisian’s career resurgence. Following his dismissal from USC in 2016, Sarkisian faced challenges in securing coaching interviews until Loreal’s influence came into play. Her support and guidance proved instrumental in helping him rebuild his coaching career.
Life and Football Partnership
Their close partnership extends to the football field, where Loreal not only supports Sarkisian but also assists him in dressing up for game days. This collaboration highlights the synergy in their life and their shared journey in the football world.
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Wife’s Support During The Toughest Time
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In 2015, Steve Sarkisian faced a significant low point in his career when USC terminated his coaching position due to erratic behavior during practice. This challenging period in his life was exacerbated by struggles with alcoholism following his divorce from his first wife.4
Meeting Loreal Sarkisian
Amidst the turmoil, Steve found solace in his second wife, Loreal Sarkisian, who played a crucial role in helping him navigate through these difficulties. Loreal’s support became instrumental in Steve’s journey towards sobriety, a journey that began after his departure from USC.
Continued Struggles and Treatment
Even in 2017, two years after the initial incident, Sarkisian acknowledged that he was still undergoing a treatment program to address his alcohol-related issues. He traced the roots of his alcoholism back to his coaching days with the Washington Huskies (2009-2013), shedding light on the persistent nature of his struggles.
Turning Adversity into Strength
By 2021, Steve Sarkisian reflected on the transformative impact of the challenging incident, emphasizing that he wouldn’t be the person he is today without facing that adversity. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to serve as a role model for his players, drawing from his own experiences to guide them through their own adversities.
Impact of Loreal Sarkisian
In a candid interview on the Pivot Podcast, Steve Sarkisian acknowledged the profound influence of his wife, Loreal, during this tumultuous period. He credited her for helping him reconnect with his faith and rebuild his self-confidence.
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Loreal Has Been Her Husband’s Biggest Supporter During Testing Time
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Loreal’s Unwavering Support
Loreal Sarkisian emerged as Steve’s steadfast supporter during the most challenging moments of his life. Her unwavering belief in Steve’s potential became a driving force behind his resurgence.
Rebuilding Confidence and Life
Steve Sarkisian shared that Loreal played a pivotal role in restoring his confidence and encouraging him to restart his life. Even after a heart surgery in 2020, it was Loreal who aided Steve in the recovery process, helping him walk again only one week after they tied the knot.
Facing Fears and Overcoming Challenges
In an interview, Loreal candidly discussed her fears during Steve’s surgery, questioning whether he would return to normal activities, particularly coaching. Despite the uncertainties, she supported him by driving him to the office daily at 5 AM, navigating through the challenges imposed by the recovery process.
Living Their Best Lives
Despite the initial obstacles, Steve and Loreal Sarkisian now find themselves thriving in Texas, living their best lives together. This journey reflects not only Steve’s personal triumph over adversity but also the strength of their partnership in overcoming testing times.
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