Jack Harbaugh’s name is carved in football history thanks to his long coaching career and the family dynasty he helped build.
But behind his success is his wife, Jackie Harbaugh, whose love, sacrifices, and influence have shaped Jack and their entire family.
Together for over six decades, Jack and Jackie’s story is one of unwavering commitment, resilience, and partnership.
Jack and Jackie first met as students at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.
Jack, a safety for the school’s football team, noticed Jackie, a cheerleader, during a biology class.
For Jack, it was love at first sight—but shyness got the best of him.
It took him two years to finally ask her out on a date. That moment was the start of a lifelong journey.
In the spring of 1962, the couple graduated together.
Jack earned a degree in physical education and later pursued a master’s degree, while Jackie began her career as a teacher and counselor.
Their shared values and aspirations set the stage for a relationship rooted in mutual respect and ambition.
Jack Harbaugh’s Wife Chooses Family Over Peace Corps Opportunity
In 1961, Jackie had a life-changing opportunity to join the inaugural class of the Peace Corps.
The prestigious offer could have taken her down a completely different path.
But after talking it over with Jack, she chose to stay, turning down the invitation.
Shortly after, the couple married, and their first child, John, was born.
If Jackie had accepted the Peace Corps position, the Harbaugh family as we know it—filled with coaches, mentors, and leaders—might never have existed.
Her decision symbolized the sacrifices she would continue to make for her family and their future.
Jackie and Jack raised three children: John, Jim, and Joani. Both sons would go on to make sports history.
John became the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, while Jim, currently the head coach of the University of Michigan, previously led the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.
In 2013, the brothers famously faced each other in the Super Bowl, earning the nickname “The Harbowl.”
Their daughter, Joani, although not a sportswoman herself, is married to a basketball coach.
She is the wife of basketball coach Tom Crean, who has led major programs like Marquette, Indiana, and Georgia.
The two met while Tom was an assistant coach at Western Kentucky University, where Jack served as head football coach.
Jackie Has Been The Backbone For Jack And The Harbaugh Family Through Every Challenge
Jack’s coaching career spanned decades, with highlights including head coaching roles at Western Michigan University (1982–1986) and Western Kentucky University (1989–2002).
Through it all, Jackie was his rock.
She supported him during the highs and lows of his career, managed their home life, and ensured their family remained strong and connected.
When Jack transitioned to a role as Associate Athletic Director at Marquette University in Milwaukee, the family settled in Mequon, Wisconsin.
Jackie continued to play a key role in keeping their family grounded despite the demands of their high-profile lives.
Over 60 years have passed since Jack and Jackie exchanged vows in 1961.
Their marriage has been evidence of love, stability, and shared purpose.
Together, they have celebrated their children’s successes while quietly symbolizing the values of humility, hard work, and loyalty.
Jack often credits Jackie as the cornerstone of their family’s achievements, calling her the heart of the Harbaugh legacy.
Without her guidance and support, the Harbaugh family might never have reached the heights they enjoy today.
The Harbaughs’ story goes far beyond football.
It’s about Jack Harbaugh’s wife and Jack, who built a life together, made sacrifices, and instilled values in their children that helped them achieve greatness.
Jackie Harbaugh’s visible and invisible influence has been integral to every milestone her family has reached.
Her love story with Jack, which began in a college biology class, reminds us how strong partnerships can shape extraordinary legacies.
Jackie isn’t just Jack Harbaugh’s wife for the Harbaugh family—she’s the matriarch who laid the foundation for their incredible journey.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jackie and Jack Harbaugh are celebrating their 63rd anniversary in Florida instead of attending the Ravens-Chargers game.
- John and Jim Harbaugh are the first brothers to coach against each other in a Super Bowl (February 2013).
- Harbaugh was born in Crestline, Ohio, to Marie Evelyn (née Fisher) and William Avon Harbaugh.
