On Wednesday, Sept. 11, the University of North Georgia held an introductory press conference to officially announce Brooke O’Hair as the new head softball coach, following former coach Mike Davenport’s departure to the University of Georgia. She becomes just the third coach in Nighthawk program history after an 18-year stint at Mississippi College.
O’Hair arrives in Dahlonega as the winningest coach in Mississippi College’s program history with 530 wins. Additionally, her resume includes nine NCAA postseason appearances, two Super Regional berths, and back-to-back Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year awards.
“We knew this would be a highly competitive search with significant interest from across the country,” UNG Director of Athletics Mary Rob Plunkett said at the press conference. “We sought out a coach who was a strategic leader that focused on the holistic development of each student athlete, someone who embraced our storied traditions and championship mindset, an exceptional competitor, and a head coach who creates a culture built on respect and trust. From our initial conversations to sitting here today, there was never a doubt that Brooke O’Hair embodies and embraces those characteristics at her core.”
A native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, O’Hair attended Mississippi State University, where she got a bachelor’s degree in physical education. As a standout second baseman, she helped the MSU softball team reach four SEC Tournaments and three NCAA Regionals. In her time as a Bulldog, she excelled in being a true student-athlete, being named to the SEC All-Academic team three times. While being a volunteer assistant at her alma mater in 2004, she gained valuable coaching experience.
In O’Hair’s statement, she thanked UNG President Michael Shannon and Director of Athletics Plunkett for the opportunity, then took time to talk about her enthusiasm for coming to UNG.
“Obviously, it is the premier program in Division II softball. It truly is an honor to be considered to lead all these young ladies. The more I found out about the people here, the culture, the values, and the vision, it was a no-brainer for me. This is truly where God is placing me right now and I am overly excited to be a member of the UNG family.” – UNG Head Softball Coach, Brooke O’Hair
While some would feel intimidated stepping into the shoes of a legend, O’Hair embraced the challenge. “They always say you never want to be the coach that comes after the coach, but I’m going to be the coach that comes after the coach, that’s going to be here for a long time.”
