GSSM Coaches Honored as Region 2A Coaches of the Year

HARTSVILLE, S.C. (Dec. 10, 2024) ─ The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) proudly announces that two of its exceptional coaches have been recognized as Region 2A Coaches of the Year. Coach Hugh O’Connor was named volleyball coach of the year, marking his third time earning this distinction, and Coach Randell Ewing Sr. was named girls' cross-country coach of the year.

GSSM president Danny Dorsel applauded the recognition, emphasizing the balance of academics and athletics at the school. “While GSSM seeks out the most motivated and talented academic students in the state, it is no surprise that these students also excel in non-academic areas,” Dorsel said. “Our region champions in volleyball and cross-country work hard in and out of the classroom to earn the honors they receive. As we have amazing faculty in the classroom, we have top-notch coaches on the courts and fields. Congratulations to our coaches of the year, Coach Ewing Sr. and Coach O’Connor.”

Coach Hugh O’Connor: Building Teamwork and Character
Under Coach O’Connor’s leadership, the volleyball team celebrated a standout season, achieving a 17-3 record and earning the regional championship title. Reflecting on the team’s success, O’Connor said, “The team’s success came from learning how to play for each other and the love of the game.”

As both athletics director and volleyball coach, O’Connor credited the collaborative efforts of GSSM’s athletic staff for maintaining the program’s competitive edge. “Our full-time athletic staff and seasonal coaches all work together to keep our teams competitive,” he said.

Ella Alexander, a senior and volleyball team captain, praised O’Connor’s dedication. “Coach O’Connor makes a point to understand his athletes and help them improve each time they get on the court. He always pushes our team to play better and reach our potential,” she said.

Coach Randell Ewing Sr.: Inspiring Hard Work and Life Lessons
Coach Ewing has led the girls’ cross-country team to three consecutive regional championships. He focuses on instilling perseverance and character in his runners. Going beyond coaching to improve run times, Ewing also focuses on teaching his athletes how to be a good citizen and a good person. “If all I have done is to teach you to run a little bit faster or a little bit harder, then I’m a failure as a coach,” Ewing said.  

Rachel Graham, a senior, region runner of the year and cross-country team captain, highlighted Ewing’s impact. “Coach Ewing is a devoted coach to his cross-country team,” she said. “He is passionate, knowledgeable, and creates a personal relationship with his runners. He pushes everyone to be their best and teaches life lessons along the way.”

Ewing expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am just so proud to get off that bus with these children knowing what the school represents, what these children represent, and what I try to represent for this group.”

Looking Ahead
O’Connor envisions a bright future for GSSM athletics, emphasizing the students’ dual excellence in academics and sports. “The future of athletics at GSSM is bright,” he said. “Our students are scholars in the classroom and fierce competitors in sports. Their efforts in academics are matched by their efforts in athletics.”

The recognitions of O’Connor and Ewing underscore the strength of GSSM’s athletics program and the school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded student development.

To learn more about GSSM’s academics and athletics programs, visit www.scgssm.org.