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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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JAMES WALDONHead Coach: Men’s and Women’s Basketball – Southern Crescent Technical College Started his coaching career as an assistant coach at Lake City Community College (Lake City Florida) in 1982 where he motivated, recruited and encouraged student athletes to pursue their goals. Those same skill sets were displayed at Edward Waters College, Southern Polytechnic College, Earl Paulk Institute, and the Atlanta Trojans of the United States Basketball League (USBL). Waldon had an amazing 17 year career building an elite program as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Georgia Perimeter College in Decatur, Ga. While at GPC he recruited high level student-athletes that participated in the NJCAA tournament and established the institution as a powerhouse of the GCAA Region 17. Over 50 of these student athletes (5 NJCAA All Americans) went on to 4 year colleges and universities to complete their careers and studies. During his tenure at Georgia Perimeter he led them to seven GCAA/NJCAA Region XVII Championships from 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, six NJCAA National Championship Appearances 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012 and 5 time GCAA Region XVII NJCAA Coach of the Year. It was during this stretch he compiled eight 20 win seasons from 1998-2015, selected as a Trials Court Coach for USA Basketball 2006, coached eleven players to the NBA from the Atlanta Trojans of the United States Basketball League (USBL) James and Karen Waldon have been blessed in marriage for 35 years and counting with two children James (34), Rachel (30) a lovely granddaughter Jade (16). Coach Waldon graduated from Edward Waters College in 1981 |
