Kirby Smart

Who Is Kirby Paul Smart?

Kirby Paul Smart (born December 23, 1975) is an American football coach and former player. He currently serves as the head football coach at his alma mater, the University of Georgia. His journey from a defensive back to one of the most successful coaches in college football history is nothing short of remarkable.

From Player to Coach

Smart was born in Montgomery, Alabama, and grew up in Bainbridge, Georgia. He played college football at the University of Georgia, where he was a four-year letterman at defensive back. His career with 13 interceptions speaks volumes about his skill and dedication on the field.

The Early Years

After going undrafted in the 1999 NFL draft, Smart signed as a free agent with the Indianapolis Colts but didn’t make it to the professional ranks. Instead, he began his coaching career at the University of Georgia in 1999 as an administrative assistant. His journey took him through Valdosta State, Florida State University, and LSU before he returned to Georgia in 2005 as a running backs coach.

Assistant Coach at Alabama

In 2007, Smart joined Nick Saban’s staff at the University of Alabama. As an assistant coach, he quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2008. His tenure with the Crimson Tide saw numerous successes, including winning the Broyles Award in 2009 and leading them to a national championship in 2015.

Head Coach at Georgia

The turning point came on December 6, 2015, when Smart was announced as the 26th head football coach at the University of Georgia. His first victory as head coach was a memorable one—a 33–24 win over #22 North Carolina in Georgia’s opening game.

Building a Legacy

Under Smart, Georgia has achieved unprecedented success. In 2017, the Bulldogs won their first 9–0 start since 1982 and secured the SEC East title with a victory over South Carolina. The team’s regular-season record of 11–1 in 2018 was just the beginning.

Notable Achievements

In 2019, Georgia had another stellar season with a 11–1 record. Smart was named SEC Coach of the Year for that season and received the George Munger Award. The team’s performance in bowl games, including a 26–14 win over Baylor in the Sugar Bowl, further cemented his legacy.

Recent Successes

In 2021, Georgia went 12–0 and won the SEC Championship. They then defeated Michigan and Alabama in the College Football Playoff semifinals before clinching the National Championship game against TCU. The following year, Smart led his team to another perfect regular season of 12–0, winning both the Peach Bowl and the National Championship over LSU.

Future Prospects

The 2023 season saw Georgia ranked #1 in both the AP and coaches polls. Following a 49-21 victory over UAB, Smart’s record as head coach of Georgia increased to 85-15, achieving the highest total of wins and win percentage by an SEC coach through their first 100 games in history.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional achievements, Kirby Smart is a family man. He is married to Mary ‘Beth’ Elizabeth Lycett, who played basketball for the University of Georgia. The couple has three children together, adding another layer to his multifaceted life.

As Kirby Paul Smart continues his journey, one can only wonder what new heights he will reach. His story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of perseverance in the world of college football.

Kirby Paul Smart’s legacy at Georgia University is not just about wins and losses; it’s about building a program that stands the test of time. As he looks towards the future, one thing is certain: Kirby Smart will continue to inspire and lead with his unwavering commitment to excellence.