“Sad and Regrettable”: Steve Sarkisian and Wife Loreal’s Divorce Leaves College Football Community Heartbroken

‘Eventful’ would be an understatement for Steve Sarkisian’s last 365 days. Bagging a contract extension with Texas that pays over $10 million per year, not to forget the added perks like two shiny new personal cars, a country club membership, 20 hours of private jet use, and tickets to all Texas events, not much. Safe to say, the head coaching job at Texas came as a huge blessing in Sarkisian’s life, both professional and personal, since it was just the year before this, in 2020, that Sarkisian married his lady love. Now, the lady who brought in all this luck for Sarkisian is leaving.

Loreal Smith’s charm worked wonders for Sarkisian’s career, earning him the much-envied head coaching role at Texas through her popularity as an influencer and philanthropist. This undying support got Loreal Smith honored with the title of ‘The First Lady of Texas Football’ among the Longhorns fans’ community. It was only natural for them to be heartbroken when the two announced filing for their divorce.

Taking to their Instagram, Sarkisian and Loreal announced, “After many heartfelt conversations, we have decided to amicably part ways and jointly file for divorce.” The fans were pouring in their support for the two over the decision that they had made, making it a grim time for the whole Longhorns community.

A die-hard fan expressed his grief in a sincere note to Sarkisian. “Personally, I find this sad and regrettable. No one should rejoice in the dissolution of a marriage that is not violent or filled with infidelity. To hate a football team so much that you wish personal damage upon their coach or his family is a sickness. Sincerely, Alabama Fan,” wrote the user on X, condemning everyone who was dragging the Texas program and Sarkisian’s professional life into his personal matters. Yet, some fans had opposing views.

Did the Texas program doom Steve Sarkisian’s marriage?

Fans also seemed to believe that the one reason for the split could be Sarkisian’s hectic duties in Texas. Fans seem to predict that the growing competition and expectations from the program were a solid reason behind this split.

“Love these guys and hate for this to happen. But shit, it would be tough to be married to a coach looking at the competition in the SEC. @TexasLonghorns be on a mission,” a fan said. Now, how much of this is true is not confirmed by the statement of the two.

Other fans took a rather blunt approach by calling the news a ‘distraction to the program’. “Program doesn’t need this distraction,” the user tweeted, offending many. Other fans also chipped in with their supporting messages, saying, “Really sorry to see this,” “Too bad,” and “Sad.” As the two transitions into new chapters in their life, fans stand by them with all the support they need.