
Georgia Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart has faced a heart-wrenching start to the year following the passing of his father, Sonny Smart, on 4 January. Sonny, aged 76, died from complications after hip surgery following a fall in New Orleans on New Year's Eve.
Although the loss is recent, Kirby had previously spoken about the emotional challenges of watching his parents, Sonny and Sharon Smart, grow older and face health struggles. These poignant reflections, shared ahead of the 2023 College Football Playoff (CFP) national title game, now hold even greater weight as he mourns his father's passing.