Jim Harbaugh and Sarah Feuerborn Harbaugh didn’t start off as a perfect match. Their romance began in 2006 at a P.F. Chang’s restaurant, where Jim initially had to make an effort to win Sarah over. Their persistence eventually led to marriage in 2008, and they now have four children: daughters Addison and Katherine, and sons Jack and John.
Starting their journey together in California, Jim’s coaching career took them from the University of San Diego and Stanford University to the San Francisco 49ers. In 2015, they relocated to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where Jim became the head coach of the University of Michigan. After eight seasons, the family moved back to California in January 2024 when Jim took on the role of head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Sarah, originally from Missouri, was working in real estate when she met Jim, who was coaching at the University of San Diego
Sarah has been a dedicated supporter of Jim, attending events such as the 2024 NCAA National Championship and the Super Bowl. Her commitment was highlighted in a 2015 interview with Ann Arbor Family, where she admitted to avoiding online negativity about Jim to maintain her own peace of mind.
Sarah Feuerborn Harbaugh’s background includes growing up in Belton, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City, with aspirations of becoming a truck driver. She has six sisters and four brothers and faced personal loss with the passing of two brothers due to colon cancer. By the time she met Jim, she was working in real estate in Las Vegas while Jim was in town for a coaching convention.
Their relationship has spanned nearly two decades, during which Jim’s career transitions have taken them across the country, with a return to California now. Despite their moves, Ann Arbor remains a cherished place for them both due to Jim’s roots there.
Their initial meeting was at a restaurant in 2006, where Jim, recently divorced and coaching at the University of San Diego, approached Sarah. Although Sarah initially seemed uninterested, Jim’s persistence won her over, leading to their marriage in January 2008.
The Harbaughs have four children: Addison, Katherine, Jack, and John. Their fourth child’s early arrival and subsequent NICU stay were followed by a memorable baptism in Vatican City, fulfilling one of Jim’s dreams. Sarah initially struggled with the demands of being a coach’s wife but found solace in her children’s happiness when Jim was present. The Harbaughs’ family life became more fulfilling after their move to Michigan in 2015.
Sarah’s public support for Jim includes humorously addressing his fashion choices in a 2014 Dockers ad, where she made light of his “dad pants” preference. Although she does not force him to change, she has enjoyed making fun of the style in a lighthearted way.
Both Jim and Sarah actively support various causes, with Sarah serving on the Board of Directors for ChadTough and supporting The Hope Clinic. They have also made huge donations to mental health and COVID-19 relief efforts. In 2016, Sarah assisted Jim in finalizing his book, Enthusiasm Unknown to Mankind, which includes photographs by David Turnley and Jim’s essay on leadership.
Sarah’s involvement in this project reflects her deep support for Jim’s endeavors. Despite her family’s tech-savviness, Sarah admits to feeling outdated with technology but appreciates having more time for her piano playing, a gift from Jim that has brought her joy over the years.
