Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart announced on Saturday morning that he will be stepping down from his role after the passing of his father, Sonny Smart. Sonny, 78, tragically succumbed to complications from hip surgery that he had undergone following a fall in New Orleans, just before the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The announcement came as a shock to the college football community, as Kirby had been actively preparing his team for the upcoming games.
In a heartfelt statement, Kirby expressed his deep grief and sorrow at the loss of his father, a figure who had been a pillar of support throughout his career. “Sonny Smart was not just my father; he was my mentor, my coach, and my greatest source of inspiration,” Kirby said in a statement. “He taught me everything I know about discipline, work ethic, and what it means to be a leader. Losing him has left a hole in my heart, and I need to take time to grieve and be with my family.”
Sonny Smart had been a beloved figure within the Georgia football community, known for his unwavering support of Kirby’s career and the program. His sudden passing has cast a shadow over Georgia’s football future, as the Smart family grapples with the emotional loss. While Kirby’s departure marks the end of an era for the Bulldogs, he made it clear that his decision was made with his family’s needs in mind, and that he could not continue coaching under the current circumstances.
Kirby’s resignation ends a remarkable chapter in Georgia football, one where he led the team to numerous SEC titles and national championships. His legacy as a coach will endure, but in this moment, family must take precedence.
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