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Donald Hardy
Athletic Director A Georgia native, Hardy began his coaching journey as a student assistant at Waycross College, where he was recruited by Athletic Director Bryan Hartley from Wayne County High School. Under the guidance of Head Coach Cory Baldwin from 2009 to 2012, Hardy made significant contributions to the success of the Waycross College basketball program. In their first year of eligibility for nationals, he played a pivotal role in helping the team secure its first-ever GCAA title, marking a historic achievement for the college. Continuing his coaching career, Hardy joined Albany State University under Head Coach Chris Cameron, where he honed his skills and expanded his knowledge of the game. He later took on the role of Head Assistant at South Georgia State College, formerly known as Waycross College. Once again working alongside Coach Baldwin, Hardy played an instrumental role in the team’s continued success. The team clinched two more GCAA titles in 2021 and 2023, adding to their impressive collection. Additionally, Hardy’s coaching expertise contributed to the team’s regular season championship title in 2015. Hardy then joined Albany Technical College Under Head Coach Rachard Lofton, leading the team to its first regular season championship and hosting the GCAA championship tournament for the first time in the school’s history. He played a vital role in guiding them to the GCAA Championship Game this past season (2023-24). Beyond the court, Hardy has made a lasting impact on the lives of the student-athletes he has mentored. Throughout his tenure at South Georgia State College, he played a key role in helping 67 student-athletes advance to the next level and pursue their basketball careers at four-year universities. His commitment to academic success is reflected in the basketball team’s remarkable graduation rate of 90%, highlighting his dedication to developing well-rounded individuals. Recognized for his recruiting prowess, Hardy successfully recruited five NJCAA All-Americans, showcasing his ability to identify and attract top talent to his teams. His keen eye for talent and his capacity to nurture and develop players have undoubtedly contributed to the overall success of the programs he has been involved with. Hardy’s educational background is equally noteworthy. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the College of Coastal Georgia, solidifying his foundation in sports and coaching. Currently, he is pursuing his master’s degree in student Affairs at Grand Canyon University, further enhancing his understanding of the holistic development of student-athletes. With his wealth of experience, dedication to academic and athletic excellence, and ongoing pursuit of knowledge, Hardy is well-equipped to continue making a positive impact in the world of coaching and student affairs. **Coaching Career: ** 2009-2012: Student Assistant – Waycross College
2012-2013: Student Assistant – Albany State University 2013-2023: Assistant Coach – South Georgia State College
2023-2024: Associate Head Coach – Albany Technical College
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