“We’re all here”: Georgia players stand strong for HC Kirby Smart after dad Sonny Smart’s tragic death

Georgia coach Kirby Smart endured a profound loss on Friday with the death of his father, Sonny Smart, just two days after the Bulldogs' defeat to Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl.

Since the tragic news, Smart has been met with an outpouring of condolences and support from across the college football community. This has also come from his players and staff.

Nathaniel Frazier passed a message to the coach on behalf of all Georgia players on social media on Saturday. The running back declared the team’s support to the coach in these trying times.

“Thank You Coach ❤️. No one knows what goes on behind closed doors thank you for being strong for us 🤞🏾 . We’re all here for you! RESILIENT,” Frazier wrote.

Kirby Smart’s father's tragic death

Sonny Smart experienced a severe fall on Tuesday that led to a fractured hip. He was promptly hospitalized and underwent surgery in an effort to address his injuries. Sadly, despite medical intervention, he was unable to recover and died on Saturday morning.

“Sonny Smart passed away on January 4, 2025, at 12:15 a.m. surrounded by his wife, Sharon, and their three children: Karl, Kirby, and Kendall,” the University of Georgia’s statement read.

“Sonny fell while working during the day on New Year's Eve in New Orleans and fractured his hip. He was hospitalized and underwent hip surgery; unfortunately, complications arose. He fought valiantly but was unable to overcome his injuries.”

Kirby Smart’s father was a proud alumnus of Samford University, where he played college football and later graduated alongside his wife, Sharon. A lifelong football enthusiast, Sonny was also a devoted supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs during his lifetime.

Nate Frazier’s brilliant season under Kirby Smart in 2024

Nate Frazier had an eventful season at Georgia in 2024. The true freshman lived up to the hype, immediately establishing himself as a top talent in Athens. He was given enough chance by Kirby Smart to flourish early in his college career.

In 13 games this season, Frazier rushed for 671 yards and eight touchdowns on 133 carries in the pass-centric Georgia offense. This was highlighted by his 136 rushing yards and three touchdowns against UMass in Week 13.

Following his brilliant true freshman season in Athens, Frazier has what it takes to be one of the best in his position within the landscape. He is expected to become more crucial for the Bulldogs in the next few years.