Grateful for the Experience: Lunch with Coach Kirby Smart and Rising Star CJ Allen Inspires Leadership and Life Lessons
In the world of college football, headlines are often dominated by scores, recruits, and championship predictions. But every so often, a story emerges that shifts the focus away from statistics and rankings to something deeper—values, leadership, and the character behind the athletes and coaches we cheer for.
Such was the case during a recent luncheon, made possible by CPI Security, where a small group had the unique opportunity to share time with University of Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart and emerging linebacker CJ Allen. What began as a casual sit-down quickly turned into an experience filled with powerful insights on life, growth, mentorship, and the responsibilities that come with leadership.
A Rare and Personal Glimpse
Opportunities like this are rare, even in the world of media and athletics. Sitting across from Kirby Smart—a coach who’s become synonymous with success at the collegiate level—was surreal in itself. But what made the afternoon particularly special was the humility and openness with which both Smart and CJ Allen engaged with everyone in the room.
This wasn’t a press conference, a recruitment pitch, or a media spectacle. It was genuine human interaction: stories were shared, questions asked, and lessons exchanged. And perhaps most importantly, it became clear that the values emphasized by Georgia’s program run much deeper than football.
CJ Allen: A Star in the Making With a Grounded Spirit
CJ Allen isn’t just another recruit in Georgia’s stacked defensive lineup. A native of Barnesville, Georgia, Allen is already drawing comparisons to some of the school’s all-time greats. As a true freshman, Allen impressed with 41 total tackles in 14 games, ranking fifth on the team—a rare feat for someone in their first year.
But what stood out during the lunch wasn’t just his impressive stats. It was the calm confidence and humility that radiated from him. In an era where young athletes are often thrust into the spotlight too soon, Allen’s perspective was refreshing. When asked what motivates him, he didn’t talk about NFL dreams or fame. Instead, he spoke about family, community, and the honor of representing the people who helped him get to this point.
Allen’s gratitude for his roots was palpable. “I’m proud to represent Barnesville,” he said. “It’s not about me—it’s about everyone who poured into me growing up. If I can inspire one kid from my hometown to chase their dreams, I’ve done something right.”
Kirby Smart: A Coach, Mentor, and Builder of Men
Coach Kirby Smart needs no introduction in college football circles. With multiple SEC titles and two national championships under his belt, he’s one of the sport’s most respected figures. But accolades aside, it’s his leadership philosophy that has transformed Georgia from a contender into a dynasty.
During lunch, Smart spoke less about plays and more about people. He reflected on his early coaching years, the mentors who shaped him, and the lessons that stay with him even today. He talked about the difference between talent and character, and how he evaluates recruits not just on what they can do on the field—but how they carry themselves off it.
“The goal isn’t just to win games,” Smart shared. “It’s to develop men. Guys who can be great teammates, great fathers, great community leaders. Football’s just the beginning.”
This perspective explains why players like CJ Allen thrive under his watch. Smart has built a culture at Georgia where discipline, humility, and growth are non-negotiables.
Life Lessons From the Gridiron
Throughout the lunch, key themes kept emerging—discipline, leadership, and vision.
Discipline, Smart explained, is about consistency and accountability. “It’s doing the right thing when nobody’s watching. That’s how habits are built, and that’s how success is sustained.”
CJ Allen echoed this, saying that discipline isn’t just about early workouts or studying film. “It’s about how you treat people. It’s about how you respond to adversity. That’s what Coach preaches every day.”
Leadership, meanwhile, is a quality both Smart and Allen believe must be learned and earned. “It’s not about being the loudest voice in the room,” Smart said. “It’s about showing up every day, doing the work, and putting the team before yourself.”
Allen added, “I try to lead by example. If my teammates see me grinding, staying humble, lifting others up—that’s how you earn respect.”
Vision—perhaps the most abstract of the three—was about having clarity of purpose. “You’ve got to know where you’re going,” Smart said. “Otherwise, you’re just going through the motions. Set your goals, align your actions, and pursue them with everything you’ve got.”
These principles, while rooted in football, translate directly to life. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone simply trying to grow, the message was clear: leadership is lived, not talked about.
Beyond the Field: Building a Legacy of Impact
What truly resonated during the conversation was the broader mission of Georgia football: building a legacy that extends far beyond the field.
Coach Smart emphasized the importance of academics, community service, and mentorship. He described initiatives where players work with local schools, mentor younger athletes, and participate in service projects. “It’s about giving back,” he said. “You’re blessed with a platform—use it to lift others.”
CJ Allen shared how impactful this mindset has been in his own life. “Coach challenges us to think bigger. Football is great, but it won’t last forever. What will last is how you made people feel. How you gave back.”
He mentioned how rewarding it is to speak at youth events and return home to encourage younger kids. “If I can be a positive example for the next generation, that’s bigger than any tackle I’ll ever make.”
The Power of Mentorship
One of the most powerful takeaways from the lunch was the undeniable importance of mentorship.
Both Smart and Allen credited their success to the people who guided them along the way. From coaches and teachers to family members and community leaders, they highlighted how crucial it is to have someone in your corner—someone who believes in your potential even before you do.
Smart stressed the role coaches play in shaping young men’s futures. “This is a critical time in their lives. They’re figuring out who they are, what they believe, and where they’re headed. As coaches, we have a duty to guide, correct, and encourage.”
Allen nodded in agreement. “I wouldn’t be here without my mentors. They saw something in me and never let me settle.”
It’s a reminder to all of us—no matter our field or background—that we have the opportunity to mentor, uplift, and guide those around us.
Locked In and Inspired
As the lunch wrapped up, the feeling in the room was unmistakable: inspiration, reflection, and a sense of renewed purpose.
For me, this wasn’t just about meeting a legendary coach or a rising star linebacker. It was about absorbing their energy, their wisdom, and their authenticity. It was about remembering why leadership matters. Why humility matters. Why service matters.
I walked away from that table not just thinking about football, but about the kind of person I want to be. More disciplined. More intentional. More invested in others.
In a culture obsessed with instant success, this experience was a powerful reminder that true greatness takes time—and it starts with character.
Final Thoughts
There are moments in life that reframe our perspectives and light a new fire within us. This was one of those moments.
Lunch with Kirby Smart and CJ Allen wasn’t just a privilege—it was a masterclass in leadership, values, and vision. And it reinforced a timeless truth: the people we admire most aren’t always the flashiest or loudest—they’re the ones who stay true to who they are, lift others up, and lead with purpose.
As the Bulldogs prepare for another season and fans gear up to cheer them on, it’s reassuring to know that behind the helmets and playbooks are men who care deeply about making a lasting impact.
And for that, I’m not just impressed—I’m truly grateful.
