Brunswick Community College announced this week that Onya Gardner has been appointed head coach of the women’s basketball program, bringing a deep-rooted connection to the institution and a career spanning nearly two decades.
A Local Legacy Takes the Helm
A native of Brunswick County, Gardner has spent 18 years at the college, moving through roles such as administrative assistant, internal auditor, dean, and associate vice president of continuing education and workforce development before returning to the court as an assistant coach from 2016 to 2019 and later serving as a mentor to the team.
Her vision for the program centers on cultivating women of character who graduate, lead, serve, and compete with excellence and respect, a philosophy she says will guide every facet of the team’s development.
The recent 2026 season marked a milestone when the Dolphins reached the Region Semifinals, setting new performance standards for the program and underscoring the momentum Gardner aims to sustain.
Athletics Director Robbie Allen praised Gardner’s dedication to students and the broader community, highlighting her passion for mentorship and her ability to blend academic rigor with competitive ambition.
Going forward, Gardner will focus on preserving the program’s upward trajectory while reinforcing commitments to academic achievement, leadership development, personal growth, and competitive excellence.