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Blair Hardiek is entering her second year as a member of the women's basketball coaching staff at the University of San Francisco. Hardiek joined Azzi's staff in the spring of 2010.
"Blair is a skilled young coach who brings a ton of energy to USF," said Azzi. "She understands the local and regional recruiting scene and will be an asset in recruiting top talent in California. Her experience at Stanford and at San Francisco State will be an asset as we build at USF."
Hardiek joined the Dons following a season as the top women's basketball assistant at San Francisco State. Hardiek, was a four-year letter-winner and team captain at the University of Missouri. She had a successful playing career for the Lady Tigers of the prestigious Big 12 Conference while also excelling in the classroom.
"I am extremely excited for the opportunity to coach at the University of San Francisco," stated Hardiek. "The university itself has a strong tradition of academic excellence, integrity, and emphasis on personal development. Additionally, Jennifer knows the value of hard-work on and off-the court and is a fierce competitor and a passionate leader. I could not feel more blessed to aid the staff, players, and community in building something great for USF women's basketball."
As the top-assistant for the Gators during the 2009-10 season, Hardiek gained valuable experience. She was responsible for the oversight of guard development, recruiting coordination both on and off campus, film breakdown and scouts of every opponent, player academic meetings and leading practices.
Hardiek began her coaching journey as an intern for Hall of Fame coach, Tara VanDerveer and her staff at Stanford. While working with VanDerveer, the Cardinal posted an overall record of 35-4 while earning a 2008 NCAA Final Four appearance. She has also coached, for two years, at the Tara VanDerveer Summer Camps.
Hardiek enjoyed a successful playing career at The University of Missouri. She was a point guard and team captain for the 2003-2007 squad. Also, Hardiek was the team's Pre-Season Total Point Leader, three time Team Hustle Award, along with the Tiger Free Throw Award.
In the classroom, Hardiek was a Big XII Commissioner's Honor Roll honoree, graduating with a degree in communications and minor in Business. Hardiek also earned her MBA from Golden Gate University in 2009. A native of Effingham, Illinois, Hardiek was a standout for Effingham High School, where she is a member of the Hall of Fame.
She holds the school's scoring, rebounding, and steals records. Additionally, Hardiek was an Illinois High School Association (IHSA) All-State Nominee and a Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) All-State Nominee. Hardiek was also a nominee for the Street and Smith's All-State Team and invitee to the Nike All-American Camp.
Since 2007, Hardiek has not only interned for Stanford University and worked as the top assistant at San Francisco State, but was a basketball trainer at Triple Threat Academy which is Northern California's top basketball training program. She has also served as a camp counselor for the Golden State Warriors and assisted with basketball clinics throughout many Northern California locations.
