Contact: Angelica Maldonado, angelica.maldonado@concordia.edu or Vance Laws, vance.laws@concordia.edu

Concordia University Texas Remembers Head Coach Mike Gardner

AUSTIN (July 24, 2024) - Concordia University Texas head baseball coach and Concordia Athletics Hall of Fame member, Mike Gardner died peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 10th, 2024 after a battle with health issues.

Coach Gardner won 242 games during his 10-year stint as head coach, which at the time, was the most in program history. Gardner guided the Tornados in 2002 to one of its most successful seasons in program history. The program won 35 games and advanced to the NCAA Division III College World Series title game, the furthest the program has advanced in school history.

In 2023, the University renamed its baseball field to Gardner-Boggs Field to honor the achievements of the program's two winningest head coaches. This renaming serves as a testament to their enduring legacy within the CTX baseball program.

"Coach Gardner's impact on Concordia Texas goes beyond his coaching achievements," said Ronda Seagraves, CTX Vice President and Director of Athletics. "His leadership and vision have left an enduring mark on our community and will inspire future generations of Tornado coaches and student-athletes."

"Our University and community have been profoundly impacted by Coach Gardner's dedication and passion for the game. His legacy of excellence will inspire us for generations to come," said Dr. Donald Christian, President and CEO of Concordia Texas. "We celebrate with Mike's family and loved ones about the impact he had in living out his vocation in this world and look forward to celebrating in eternal resurrection with him."

Coach Gardner's funeral will be held at the Concordia University Texas Chapel on August 3, 2024 at 3:00 PM CST. Reflection and refreshments will be held at Gardner-Boggs Field after the funeral. 

Coach Gardner Obituary (PDF)
Campus Map (PDF)