Sonny Smart Wikipedia, Biography
Sonny Smart was a distinguished high school football and baseball coach whose career spanned several decades in Alabama and Georgia. As the father of Kirby Smart, the head football coach at the University of Georgia, Sonny’s influence on the sport and his son’s career is profound. His dedication to coaching and mentorship left an indelible mark on the communities he served.
Early Life and Family
Born in Columbia, Alabama, Sonny Smart developed a passion for sports early in life. He pursued this interest by playing college football at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, where he was a two-year starter at center for the Samford Bulldogs, graduating in 1970.
Sonny was married to Sharon Smart, and together they had three children: Karl, Kirby, and Kendall. The Smart family shared a deep bond, with Sonny’s coaching career significantly influencing his children’s lives, particularly Kirby, who followed in his father’s footsteps into football coaching.
Education
Sonny Smart attended Samford University, where he not only excelled on the football field but also completed his academic studies. His time at Samford was instrumental in shaping his future coaching philosophy and career.
Coaching Career
After his collegiate playing days, Sonny transitioned into coaching, beginning at Holtville High School in Alabama. There, he served as both an offensive and defensive line coach and led the baseball team to a state championship in 1982.
In 1988, Sonny became the head football coach at Bainbridge High School in Georgia, where his son Kirby played safety under his guidance. His tenure at Bainbridge was marked by a commitment to developing young athletes both on and off the field.
From 1995 to 2003, Sonny served as the head coach at Rabun County High School in Georgia. During this period, he transformed the football program, leading the team from a 3-7 season in his first year to an impressive 11-2 record and a region championship in 1998.
Throughout his coaching career, Sonny was known for his emphasis on preparation, resilience, and integrity—values he instilled in his players and his son Kirby, who has often credited his father for teaching him the importance of handling situations the right way and being prepared.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional achievements, Sonny was a family man devoted to his wife Sharon and their three children. He was a mentor to many and a respected figure in the communities where he coached. His legacy is reflected in the success of his son Kirby, who has often spoken about the profound impact his father had on his life and career.
Death
Tragically, Sonny Smart passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 76, due to complications from hip surgery following a fall in New Orleans. He had traveled there to support Kirby’s team in the Sugar Bowl. Despite undergoing surgery, complications arose, and he was unable to overcome his injuries. He passed away surrounded by his family, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff for the exceptional care provided.
Legacy
Sonny Smart’s legacy extends beyond his coaching records. He is remembered for his dedication to his players, his commitment to his family, and the values he instilled in those around him. His influence is evident in the coaching philosophy of his son Kirby, who has led the Georgia Bulldogs to national prominence, embodying the principles his father taught him.
Conclusion
Sonny Smart’s life was a testament to the impact a dedicated coach and father can have on his family and community. His contributions to high school sports in Alabama and Georgia, along with his role in shaping the career of his son Kirby, ensure that his legacy will endure for years to come.
FAQs
- Who was Sonny Smart?
- Sonny Smart was a high school football and baseball coach in Alabama and Georgia, and the father of University of Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart.
- Where did Sonny Smart play college football?
- He played at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, where he was a two-year starter at center.
- Which schools did Sonny Smart coach at?
- He coached at Holtville High School in Alabama, Bainbridge High School in Georgia, and Rabun County High School in Georgia.
- How did Sonny Smart influence his son Kirby’s career?
- Sonny’s coaching philosophy and mentorship greatly influenced Kirby, who has often credited his father for teaching him important life and coaching lessons.
- When did Sonny Smart pass away?
- He passed away on January 4, 2025, due to complications from hip surgery following a fall.
- How many children did Sonny Smart have?
- Sonny had three children: Karl, Kirby, and Kendall.
- What was Sonny Smart’s coaching record at Rabun County High School?
- He led the team from a 3-7 season in his first year to an 11-2 record and a region championship in 1998.
- Did Sonny Smart coach his son Kirby?
- Yes, Sonny coached Kirby at Bainbridge High School, where Kirby played safety under his father’s guidance.
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