Former Merced College assistant Girardi replaces former coach
Mannisto
GILROY – Gavilan College announced the appointment of Michael Girardi as the new coach for the women’s basketball team – replacing former coach Michelle Mannisto.
Michael Girardi brings strong experience with both women’s and men’s teams at the community college level. Girardi was formerly the assistant women’s basketball coach at Merced College, where he also served as assistant football coach, and assistant track and field coach since 2001. He has been head men’s basketball coach at Napa Valley College, and assistant women’s and men’s basketball coach at Lassen Community College.
“We’ve hired the best basketball coach we could,” said Ron Hannon, Gavilan College Director of Athletics. “He has experience at the community college level at several schools. He understands both women’s and men’s sports. He has a great ability to communicate. He’s a perfect fit for what we’re trying to accomplish here.”
Before coaching, Girardi played basketball at the college level. He was First Team All-Conference, Team Most Valuable Player, Academic All-American and All-Conference at Merced College. He earned a scholarship at the four-year level, playing NCAA Division I Basketball at Rice University. He played professional basketball for Club Lazio in Italy (1988-1991) and in the United Arab Emirates (1992.)
Girardi earned his Bachelor’s Degree at Rice University, and then a Masters Degree at the University of Kansas, where he was Graduate Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach. In 2000, he was named Merced College Physical Education Department Alumnus of the Year.
“Mike can help our students get to the next level. Because he’s been there, he has a deep appreciation for the balances that are required for student athletes, We’re fortunate to hire a coach that brings the total package,” said Ron Hannon.
At least two of last year’s team have already met their new coach, and are enthusiastic about returning next year. In addition, Girardi will be recruiting this summer to prepare for the Fall women’s basketball season. He will be looking for athletes who are “good citizens, educationally oriented, and good team players. We will be selective in our recruiting process,” he said, in describing his teaching and coaching philosophy. “Being successful is the end product achieved by doing the right things on a daily basis. There are no short cuts.”
The Gavilan College women’s basketball coach is a part-time position. Girardi will also teach in the physical education department.
