Jan. 30 at Park City High, Miners golf star Rawson Hardy signed to play college golf at Georgia Tech.

Hardy, the 2024 individual state champion, was surrounded by family, friends and coaches. 

Originally a junior, he reclassified to the 2025 class to get to the next level a year early. He said he feels he’s accomplished all he can at the prep level and is ready to take the next step. Hardy also helped the Miners claim the 2024 team state title, the program’s first in six years. 

Georgia Tech is one of the strongest college programs, currently ranked 14th in the nation. They have 19 ACC titles and five NCAA runner-up finishes in program history. Tech also ranks 33rd in the U.S. News and World Report academic rankings. 

“I took a bunch of visits, and Georgia Tech really felt like a big family,” added Hardy. “Everyone is supportive of each other. The coaches really believe in me. It’s a great all-around fit.”

Hardy’s new head coach Bruce Heppler focused on the Parkite’s individual success in the recruiting process. Hardy is ranked 108th in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). Heppler also appreciated that Hardy was part of his high school team and a well-rounded athlete. 

The Yellow Jackets graduated all-ACC Ogden-native Connor Howe back in 2023, and Heppler sees much of what made Howe great in Hardy. Heppler is in his 30th season at the helm of the program. 

“We are really excited to add another high-quality student-athlete” Heppler said. “He has an outstanding skill set and a great desire to succeed.

“He is a multi-sport athlete, and his athleticism will be a great asset to our program.”

Hardy is ready to start practicing outdoors year-round. He believes being on the Tech team and playing the courses available to them will help make him a better golfer and person. Hardy acknowledged how tough it is to make it in golf from a ski resort town like Park City. 

Hardy is looking to eventually make it to the professional ranks. He sees Tech as the perfect stepping stone. 

“He’s graduating a year early, I’m sad about that,” said Miners head coach George Murphy. “I know he’s ready, he’s mature enough and that’s the level he belongs at.

“I’m so happy for him.”

Murphy is confident Hardy will make it as a professional because of his mental foritude. He said it’s been amazing to watch that develop alongside the rest of his game during his three years with the Park City team.

“It’s not an easy road, but he’s willing to put in the work,” added Murphy.