When fans talk about the Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian, public curiosity often extends beyond the gridiron to his personal life. While competitor articles frequently confuse or mislabel family names—such as referencing past marriages or incorrect names like Amanda Sarkisian—the actual person beside the football coach for years has been Loreal Sarkisian (formerly Loreal Smith). As a former track star, professional wardrobe stylist, and philanthropist, she has carved out her own distinct identity in the sports and fashion worlds.
Understanding who Loreal is requires looking past simple tabloid headlines. She has built an independent career, established a notable presence in Austin fashion culture, and navigated the high-pressure environment of major collegiate athletics alongside her husband.
Early Life and Athletic Career
Long before she became known in college football circles, Loreal Sarkisian was an elite athlete in her own right. Born on October 12, 1985, in Tallahassee, Florida, she grew up with a strong passion for sports.
During her youth and collegiate years, she focused heavily on track and field, as well as softball. Her athletic dedication earned her a spot as a standout track athlete at North Carolina A&T State University, where she competed in hurdles and sprinting events. This athletic foundation later paved the way for her entry into collegiate coaching. Before transitioning entirely into the fashion industry, she worked as an assistant track and field coach at the University of Southern California (USC), where she crossed paths with Steve Sarkisian during his coaching tenure there.
Transition into Professional Styling and Fashion
After stepping away from collegiate track and field, Loreal pivoted toward her true passion: high-end fashion and wardrobe styling. She established herself as a professional personal stylist, working with clients across entertainment and sports.
Her acute sense of style gained widespread national attention after Steve Sarkisian took over as the head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns. Football fans quickly began tracking her curated, high-fashion game-day outfits, which she regularly showcased on her social media platforms. Rather than fading into the background, she embraced the public platform, using her visibility to launch style campaigns, collaborate with designers, and engage in local Austin philanthropy. Her prominent role in stadium fashion earned her the affectionate moniker among supporters as the First Lady of Texas Football.
Family Dynamics and the Sarkisian Household
The Sarkisian family blends a mix of athletic ambition and academic pursuits. Steve Sarkisian has three children from his previous marriage—Ashley, Brady, and Taylor—whom Loreal helped parent as a stepmother.
- Ashley Sarkisian: The eldest sibling, who graduated from New York University and has pursued independent professional interests.
- Brady Sarkisian: Following in his father's athletic footsteps, Brady joined the Texas Longhorns football program as a linebacker, majoring in sociology and representing the family on the gridiron.
- Taylor Sarkisian: The youngest sibling, who maintains a more private lifestyle away from the intense media spotlight.
In addition to supporting her stepchildren, Loreal and Steve have built a shared life that has weathered intense public scrutiny. Media outlets frequently sensationalized aspects of their relationship, including a brief separation filing followed by a public reconciliation and a shared commitment to supporting each other personally and professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Steve Sarkisian currently married?
Yes, Steve Sarkisian is married to Loreal Sarkisian. Online confusion sometimes leads people to search for names like Amanda Sarkisian, but Loreal is his recognized spouse and partner.
What is Loreal Sarkisian's professional background?
Loreal is a professional wardrobe stylist and philanthropist. She is also a former collegiate track and field athlete who previously coached at USC.
Did Loreal Sarkisian play sports?
Yes. She competed as a track and field athlete specializing in hurdles and sprinting during her time at North Carolina A&T State University.
Why is Loreal Sarkisian often called the First Lady of Texas Football?
Due to her prominent public support of the Texas Longhorns and her widely publicized fashion choices on game days, fans and local media affectionately gave her this title.
