Albany, GA- From record-breaking sprinter to esteemed coach, Ronnie McGirt continues to leave an indelible mark on the track. An Albany State University alum with a bachelor's degree in business administration, McGirt made history in 2009 by winning the NCAA Division II championship in the 110-meter hurdles, earning All-American status. That same year, he set Albany State's 110-meter hurdles school record(13.69 seconds), which he still holds today. His talent propelled him to the national stage, where he competed at the 2012 Olympic Trials in Oregon, testing himself against the best in the country. His talent propelled him to the national stage, where he competed at the 2012 Olympic Trials in Oregon, testing himself against the best in the country.
 
McGirt is now an assistant track coach at his very own alma mater, continuing his legacy. The Dublin, GA native brings that elite-level experience to his athletes, shaping their speed, technique, and competitive mindset. His impact as a coach was awarded with the 2024 USTFCCCA South Region Men's Assistant Coach of the Year. Coach Ronnie McGirt's legacy in track and field isn't just about his victories, it's about the ones he helps create.
 
With that in mind, we caught up with Coach McGirt, and here's what they had to say:
 
Q: What's your fondest sports memory?
A: Winning multiple state championships in basketball and track in high school was an unforgettable experience that shaped my competitive spirit and drive for excellence. Each championship reinforced the value of dedication, discipline, and the power of believing in something bigger than yourself.
 
Q: What motivated you to become a coach?
A: I wanted to be a part of something greater than myself, helping to grow and transcend the sports I love while also serving as a mentor and role model. Sports can shape lives, and I see my role as more than just coaching or leading. My goal is to instill values that transcend the game, perseverance, teamwork, and a humanitarian spirit that fosters community and excellence. 
 
Q: What qualities do you believe make a good leader?
A: To me, leadership is about balance. Being able to be adaptable, decisive, and versatile while also promoting a growth mindset. A great leader is both authoritative and approachable, someone who leads with conviction but also listens and learns. Self-awareness and personal growth are at the heart of strong leadership. A leader should be able to provide and promote a common goal and mission.
 
Q: What impact do you want to make on the next generation?
A: Being a positive influence is about more than just words; it's about fostering strong connections, encouraging self-awareness, and promoting critical thinking. A leader who leads with authenticity and reflection can uplift those around them, creating an environment where confidence, resilience, and excellence thrive.
 
Q: How do you handle adversities or coaching challenges?
A: Handling adversity and challenges requires a mindset rooted in resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. It's not about avoiding difficulties, it's about meeting them head-on, learning from every experience, and emerging stronger, wiser, and more prepared for the road ahead

Fun Fact:
Favorite Hobbies: Stock market trading, research and reading, and being outdoors. 
Three athletes you believe are the Greatest of All Time: Kobe, Usain Bolt, Muhammad Ali. 
If you weren't coaching, what other career would you pursue?: Financial Manager 
Favorite vacation destination: Warm weather destinations ( Ex. Bali, Bangkok) 
Favorite time of year: Every month in every Season. Grateful to be alive to say so. Cherish All! 

Stay Connected
For complete coverage of ASU Athletics, follow us on social media @asugoldenrams (Instagram), @ASUGoldenRams (Twitter), ASU Rams Nation (Facebook), or visit the official home of the Golden Rams at www.asugoldenrams.com.
 
ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently field teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football. All teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.