BOILING SPRINGS, NC - Gardner-Webb University is proud to announce that former long time football coach to the university and director of athletics, Woody Fish has just been hired in a brand new capacity. Fish has been named Assistant Vice-President for Development for Athletics at Gardner-Webb effective immediately.

The relationship between Gardner-Webb and Woody Fish goes way back and makes for an easy transition for Fish and his family back to the area.

A 1973 graduate of Gardner-Webb, Fish received both his Undergraduate and Masters degrees from the university. Fish served as head football coach for the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs from 1984-96, where he compiled an overall record of 73-70-1 with a pair of league titles. Fish guided the Bulldogs to South Atlantic Conference championships in 1987 and 1992, with his 1992 club finishing 12-2 and as the national runner-up. Fish was the South Atlantic Conference Coach-of-the-Year in 1987 and coached 15 All-American selections during his tenure.

Fish most recently, served the past six-years at Duke University as Director of Football Operations, where his duties included organizing recruitment, high school relations, and overseeing the development of football facilities.

When ask how he felt to be returning to Gardner-Webb, Fish said, “It’s one of the highlights of my career to be back home and with a great university.” Fish says his new role in development for athletics and coaching have many similarities. “In both cases (a team sport and fundraising), you start with recruiting, then there’s a game plan, and from there you build relationships.”

Fish sees nothing but great things ahead as he works with Gardner-Webb President, Dr. Frank Bonner and begins a new chapter in his Gardner-Webb life.

Located in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb University is home to nearly 4000 students from 30 states and 30 foreign countries. Gardner-Webb seeks a higher ground in higher education - one that embraces faith and intellectual freedom, balances conviction with compassion, and inspires in students a love of learning, service, and leadership.