The Oxford College of Emory University community is mourning the loss of the Head Men's and Women's Tennis Coach, Pernilla Hardin, who passed away on Sunday, July 2nd.
"I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact Coach Pernilla Hardin had on her teams and the incredible positive influence she had on each student-athlete," commented Oxford Athletic Director Roderick Stubbs. "Her commitment to excellence, both on and off the court, was evident in the growth and achievements of the tennis program under their guidance. Pernilla was not just a mentor and a leader but also a source of inspiration and guidance. Pernilla's ability to instill not only athletic skills but also life lessons and values in her players was truly remarkable. Her dedication, passion, and unwavering belief in her athletes was truly remarkable. Her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she has touched and the profound impact she has made."
During her tenure, she guided the Eagles to multiple national championships. The men have won seven straight national titles during her leadership in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023. The women's team also won seven consecutive national championships in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022. The women's team finished second in the nation in 2014. Coach Hardin has been named Coach of The Year 9 times.
In 2020, Coach Hardin was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Tennis Hall of Fame and Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association Hall of Fame.
Coach Hardin played four years of college tennis in Florida. During her freshman year at Florida Junior College (now Florida State College of Jacksonville), she finished with a singles record of 27-0. She won the singles state championship tournament at her position.
She graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Health and was awarded the NAIA National Arthur Ashe Sportsmanship Award. She also won the State Singles championships at her position and helped the UNF tennis squad to nationally ranked finishes of #2 and #3.
We will share the details regarding the funeral or memorial service as we hear more information from the Hardin family.