Die-Hard Fan Gifts Steve Sarkisian an Expensive Car as an Appreciation Gift…
Austin, TX – In a heartwarming and unexpected turn of events, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian received a luxurious brand-new sports car as a gift from a devoted Longhorns fan. The extravagant gesture, which has sent waves through the college football world, was meant as an appreciation for Sarkisian’s leadership, dedication, and impact on the Texas football program.
The identity of the fan, initially kept secret, has now been revealed as James “Big Tex” Callahan, a wealthy businessman and lifelong Texas Longhorns supporter. Callahan, a season ticket holder for over 30 years, surprised Sarkisian with the lavish gift at an appreciation event held in Austin over the weekend.
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A Gift Like No Other: The Stunning Moment Unfolds
The event, which was initially planned as a private gathering to honor Sarkisian, quickly turned into a viral moment when Callahan presented the coach with a customized Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, a car worth nearly $350,000.
As Sarkisian stepped onto the stage to address the crowd, Callahan took the microphone and delivered a speech that left everyone stunned.
“Coach Sark, we’ve seen you work tirelessly to bring Texas football back to the top. We see the dedication, the passion, and the way you inspire these young men. This isn’t just football to us—it’s our life, our pride. And we want to say thank you. So, on behalf of the Longhorn Nation… this is for you.”
At that moment, a massive burnt orange silk cover was pulled back, revealing the gleaming luxury sports car with a custom Longhorns logo on the hood and ‘Hook ‘Em’ engraved on the seats.
The crowd erupted into cheers, and Sarkisian was visibly overwhelmed.
“Are you serious?” he asked, shaking his head in disbelief. “I don’t even know what to say. This is unbelievable!”
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Why Did the Fan Gift Sarkisian Such an Expensive Car?
James Callahan, a Texas native and former oil tycoon, is known for his deep love for the Longhorns. He explained that this gift was about more than just football—it was a way to show appreciation for Sarkisian’s leadership and his efforts to build a championship-caliber team.
“When Steve Sarkisian came to Texas, people doubted him. They said he wasn’t the right guy. But he proved them wrong,” Callahan said. “He’s changed the culture here, brought in incredible talent, and given us something to believe in again.”
Callahan continued, explaining that he had been planning this gesture for over a year and worked with Aston Martin specialists to customize the car to reflect the Texas Longhorns spirit.
“He’s not just coaching a team; he’s rebuilding a legacy. And for that, he deserves something special,” he added.
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Steve Sarkisian’s Reaction: “This Is Beyond Anything I Ever Expected”
After the initial shock wore off, Sarkisian took the time to personally thank Callahan, shaking his hand and embracing him in an emotional moment.
“I’ve coached for a long time, and I’ve had the honor of working with incredible players and staff. But this… this is beyond anything I ever expected,” Sarkisian said. “James, you didn’t have to do this. I do this job because I love it. Because I love these players, this university, and our fans. But I will say… I’ve never had a recruiting visit in an Aston Martin before!”
The room erupted in laughter as Sarkisian joked about the car’s impact on his recruiting efforts.
“Imagine pulling up to a five-star recruit’s house in this. They might commit on the spot!” he laughed.
Despite the humor, it was clear that the gesture meant a great deal to him.
“I don’t do this job for gifts or recognition. I do it because I love the game. But knowing that the fans see and appreciate the work we’re doing—it means the world to me.”
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Fan Reactions: Social Media Explodes
The moment quickly went viral on social media, with Longhorns fans reacting to the lavish gift in a mix of amazement, humor, and excitement.
@HookEmForever: “Aston Martin? My man Sark is about to be the coolest coach in college football.”
@TexasProud24: “Jimbo Fisher got a $75 million buyout. Sark got an Aston Martin. I think we know who won.”
@FootballRecruitsHQ: “If I was a five-star recruit and Sarkisian pulled up in that, I’d commit instantly.”
@LonghornsLegend: “This is the most Texas thing ever. A booster giving a coach a luxury sports car? Only in Austin.”
Some fans even joked that Callahan should buy Arch Manning a matching car to ensure he stays at Texas for all four years.
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NCAA Rules and Compliance: Is This Allowed?
With such an extravagant gift, some fans raised concerns about whether this violates NCAA rules regarding gifts to college football personnel.
However, Texas athletics officials quickly confirmed that because the gift was given directly to Sarkisian as a personal appreciation and not linked to recruiting, player benefits, or contracts, it does not violate NCAA regulations.
“This is a personal gift, not an institutional one. It’s within the legal boundaries,” a university spokesperson clarified.
That being said, it’s still one of the most high-profile and expensive appreciation gifts ever given to a college football coach.
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What’s Next for Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns?
With the Longhorns gearing up for the upcoming college football season, this event has added even more energy and excitement to the program. Sarkisian, now with a brand-new luxury car, is more motivated than ever to deliver championship success to Texas.
“This program is special,” Sarkisian said. “And I promise you—this is just the beginning. We’re building something great here.”
As he revved the engine of his custom Longhorns Aston Martin and pulled out of the event, fans cheered, knowing that Texas football is in good hands.
With passionate fans, strong leadership, and a team hungry for success, one thing is clear:
The Longhorns are ready to make history.
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