Stephanie Sarkisian is best known as the former wife of American college football coach Steve Sarkisian. Though she was once part of the high-profile world of NCAA sports, she has largely chosen to live a private life since their divorce. Her story gives us insight into what it’s like to stand beside a public sports figure while raising a family and maintaining personal identity.
Early Life & Background
Stephanie Sarkisian was reportedly born on March 8, 1974, and is believed to have Japanese ancestry through her father. Some reports suggest that she was born in Japan and later moved to the United States.
She pursued higher education with a focus on music, earning a Bachelor of Music degree. While she didn’t seek fame herself, her education and quiet determination reflect a woman of depth and talent. Despite being linked to a celebrity coach, she has always valued privacy and simplicity, keeping her personal and professional life out of the public eye
Meeting & Marriage with Steve Sarkisian
Stephanie Sarkisian’s connection with Steve Sarkisian began before his rise to national fame. The couple started dating in the early years of Steve’s coaching journey, sharing a strong bond rooted in mutual respect and family values.
They got married in 1997, at a time when Steve was just beginning to build his reputation as a football coach. As his career advanced—from assistant roles to head coaching positions at major universities—Stephanie remained a steady presence at his side, managing family responsibilities and supporting his ambitions.
Their relationship reflected the typical life of a coach’s family: constant relocation, demanding schedules, and little privacy. Yet, for many years, Stephanie balanced it all with grace and strength.
Family Life & Children
During their marriage, Stephanie Sarkisian and Steve Sarkisian had three children—two daughters, Ashley and Taylor, and a son, Brady.
Family always seemed to come first for Stephanie. She often appeared with her children at events or games but preferred to stay out of the media spotlight. As the family moved between states and universities following Steve’s coaching career, she provided stability for the children and ensured they maintained a normal upbringing despite the public attention surrounding their father.
Her commitment to her children’s well-being and education has been a consistent theme in accounts about her life.
Separation & Divorce
After nearly 18 years of marriage, Stephanie Sarkisian filed for divorce in April 2015, citing irreconcilable differences. The separation came during a turbulent time in Steve’s career, as his coaching life was under intense scrutiny.
In a joint statement, the couple emphasized mutual respect and their shared goal of raising their children together in a caring and cooperative way. This public maturity reflected the couple’s desire to protect their family’s privacy and to prioritize their children’s emotional stability above all else.
Their divorce marked the end of a long partnership that had begun before Steve’s fame and success, and it became one of the more talked-about personal stories in college football circles at the time.
Life After Divorce
Following the divorce, Stephanie Sarkisian stepped out of the public eye and refocused her life on her children and her personal interests. Reports indicate that she has worked as a substitute teacher, highlighting her commitment to education and family.
Unlike many who remain in the public spotlight after high-profile marriages, Stephanie intentionally chose privacy. She has not sought media attention or attempted to capitalize on her past relationship. Instead, she has concentrated on personal growth, her children’s success, and maintaining balance away from the noise of sports fame.
As of recent years, she is believed to still reside in the United States, living a quiet life that reflects independence and dignity.
Legacy & Public Perception
Although Stephanie Sarkisian is no longer a public figure, her name continues to surface in discussions about her former husband’s life and career. However, her own legacy lies in how she carried herself during and after her marriage—gracefully, privately, and without controversy.
The Quiet Pillar Behind the Scenes
Behind every high-profile coach or celebrity, there are people who provide emotional support and family structure. Stephanie was that quiet pillar for many years, helping build the family foundation that supported Steve’s career growth.
A Life of Dignity and Strength
Choosing to live privately after divorce can be a sign of quiet strength. Stephanie’s decision to focus on family and her own path shows resilience and self-respect. In a media culture that often rewards oversharing, her discretion has earned admiration.
Inspiration for Others
Stephanie Sarkisian’s journey serves as a reminder that personal identity doesn’t have to be defined by public relationships. Her story resonates with those who’ve rebuilt their lives after long relationships—proving that peace, privacy, and purpose are achievable after personal upheaval.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is Stephanie Sarkisian?
Stephanie Sarkisian is the former wife of football coach Steve Sarkisian. She is known for her quiet lifestyle, focus on family, and background in education and music.
Q2: How many children does Stephanie Sarkisian have?
She has three children with Steve Sarkisian—two daughters, Ashley and Taylor, and one son, Brady.
Q3: When did Stephanie Sarkisian and Steve Sarkisian divorce?
The couple divorced in 2015 after nearly 18 years of marriage.
Q4: What does Stephanie Sarkisian do now?
Stephanie is believed to have worked as a substitute teacher and currently leads a private life centered around family and personal fulfillment.
Q5: Where is Stephanie Sarkisian from?
She was reportedly born in Japan and later moved to the United States. She is said to have Japanese heritage through her father.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The life of Stephanie Sarkisian illustrates the quiet resilience of those who live beside fame but choose their own path forward. Her story isn’t about headlines or public appearances—it’s about strength, motherhood, privacy, and self-reinvention.
While the world often remembers Steve Sarkisian for his coaching achievements, Stephanie’s legacy lies in her unwavering devotion to her family and her dignified approach to life after divorce. She continues to be an example of how one can move on gracefully, focusing on what truly matters: love, growth, and inner peace.
