Dean Smith is preparing to lead the MLS All-Stars against the Liga MX All-Stars on July 29, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
The Charlotte FC coach has spent most of his career in English football. But behind his work in the dugout is a family story that goes back to his childhood in West Bromwich.
Smith was born on March 19, 1971, and grew up with his parents, Ron and Hilary, and his older brother, David.
Here's a look at Dean Smith's wife, children, parents, siblings and family background.
Who is Dean Smith's Wife?
Dean Smith is married to Nicola Smith. The couple has been together for more than 28 years.
Nicola has mostly stayed out of the spotlight while supporting Dean throughout his career in football. Their life together has included plenty of moves as Smith worked as a player and later as a manager.
The couple has two children, Jamie and Katie.
Who are Dean Smith's Children?
Dean and Nicola have a son, Jamie Smith, and a daughter, Katie Smith.
Jamie followed his father's love of football but chose a different route. He played college soccer in the United States before joining Crown Legacy FC.
Jamie spending time in the US also gave the Smith family a connection to the Carolinas. Dean visited the area while his son was studying and playing there, before eventually taking the job at Charlotte FC.
Katie lives in the United Kingdom and has kept a quieter life away from the football spotlight.
Who are Dean Smith's Parents and Siblings?
Dean was raised by Ron and Hilary Smith alongside his older brother, David.
His father, Ron, was a committed Aston Villa supporter. He worked as a steward at Villa Park for 25 years, giving Dean a close connection to the club from an early age.
Ron later suffered from Alzheimer's disease and died from COVID-19 in May 2020 at the age of 79.
Dean's mother, Hilary, raised him and David in their working-class family home in the West Midlands.
His father's love for Aston Villa stayed with him throughout his life. That made it especially meaningful when Dean eventually became the club's manager.
What is Dean Smith's Ethnicity and Family?
Dean Smith is White British and was born in West Bromwich, England.
He grew up in a working-class family just a short journey from Villa Park. Football was a big part of his childhood, and his father's support for Aston Villa helped shape his own love for the club.
Smith started his playing career with Walsall before going on to play for clubs including Hereford United, Sheffield Wednesday and Leyton Orient.
