Kirby Smart on Recruiting Success: “It’s Always Been Our Wish to Have Great Boys”
When it comes to building a championship-winning football program, few coaches have been as successful in recent years as Georgia’s Kirby Smart. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs have claimed multiple national titles and solidified their reputation as a perennial powerhouse in college football. But for Smart, success goes beyond trophies and accolades. It’s about the players—the “great boys” who form the heart of the program.
In a recent statement, Smart reflected on his approach to recruiting and developing talent, saying, “It’s always been our wish to have great boys. Despite the expenses, they’re all worth it.” This sentiment sheds light on the deeper philosophy behind Georgia’s rise to dominance and the sacrifices the program makes to secure and nurture top-tier talent.
Recruiting is the lifeblood of any college football program, and Kirby Smart has mastered the art of attracting elite talent. Georgia consistently lands top-ranked recruiting classes, often vying with Alabama and Ohio State for the nation’s best players. But for Smart, it’s not just about athletic ability—it’s about character, work ethic, and a desire to contribute to the team.
“When we’re looking at players, we’re not just evaluating their skills on the field,” Smart explained. “We’re looking at who they are as people. Are they willing to put in the work? Are they team players? Do they want to be great, not just for themselves but for the program? Those are the boys we want.”
Smart’s emphasis on recruiting players with strong character and a team-first mentality has paid dividends. The Bulldogs have not only excelled on the field but have also built a culture of accountability and camaraderie that has become the envy of college football.
Smart’s mention of the “expenses” involved in recruiting and developing great players highlights the significant investment required to maintain a championship-caliber program. From extensive scouting and travel to state-of-the-art facilities and NIL opportunities, the financial commitment is substantial.
Georgia has spared no expense in ensuring that its players have the resources they need to succeed. The Bulldogs boast some of the best facilities in the nation, including a $80 million football complex that features cutting-edge training equipment, academic support services, and amenities designed to enhance player development.
In addition, the program has embraced the new era of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), helping players capitalize on their brand while navigating the complexities of college athletics.
“Investing in our players is investing in the future of this program,” Smart said. “It’s not cheap, but it’s worth every penny. These boys give everything they have to this team, and we owe it to them to provide the best support possible.”
For Smart, the ultimate goal isn’t just to produce great football players—it’s to prepare his players for life beyond the game. He frequently emphasizes the importance of education, personal growth, and community involvement.
“Our job as coaches goes beyond winning games,” Smart said. “We’re here to help these boys become men. We want them to leave Georgia not just as great athletes but as great people who can make a difference in the world.”
This holistic approach has resonated with recruits and their families, many of whom cite Smart’s genuine care for his players as a key reason for choosing Georgia.
Under Smart’s leadership, Georgia has become the gold standard for college football. The Bulldogs have consistently dominated the SEC, developed numerous NFL draft picks, and built a reputation for excellence both on and off the field.
Smart’s success is a testament to his recruiting philosophy and his unwavering commitment to his players. By prioritizing character, hard work, and team values, he has created a program that doesn’t just win—it thrives.
As Georgia prepares for another season with championship aspirations, Smart remains focused on the fundamentals that have brought the program this far.
“It all starts with the boys,” he said. “When you have great players who believe in what you’re doing, the rest takes care of itself. We’ve been blessed with some incredible young men, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for them.”
In an era where college football is increasingly defined by high stakes and intense competition, Kirby Smart’s emphasis on recruiting and developing “great boys” serves as a reminder of the values that underpin true success. For Smart and the Bulldogs, it’s not just about winning—it’s about building something that lasts.