Legendary Georgia Basketball Coach David Boyd Passes Away
Berkmar High School and the entire Georgia basketball community are mourning the loss of legendary coach David Boyd, who passed away on Monday at the age of 69. Boyd, who had been battling Type 1 diabetes for many years, died peacefully in his home at St. Simons Island due to heart failure.
A Record-Breaking Career
Boyd’s impact on the basketball world in Georgia is immeasurable. Over his 30-year career as a coach, his teams achieved an impressive 641-210 record and won an unmatched six state championships at four different schools. His remarkable achievements led to his induction into the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2023.
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A Loving Family Man
Boyd is survived by his loving wife Genise, his brother Cal, and four children: Charisse, Geoff, Christina, and Wesley. Sadly, his brother Scott preceded him in death. The close-knit Boyd family was a source of strength and support throughout his successful career.
A Passion for Coaching
Born and raised in Smyrna, Boyd discovered his love for basketball and football while attending Campbell High School. It was during his time at Georgia State University, under the guidance of coach Jack Waters, that Boyd’s passion for coaching and educating young athletes was ignited.
Championship Success
Boyd’s coaching career took off when he became the head coach at Campbell High School. In 1981, he led the Panthers to the state championship game, narrowly missing out on victory. However, with determination and a talented team, Boyd returned the following year and secured the championship title in 1982.
One of the standout players on that championship-winning team was Boyd’s younger brother Cal, who went on to set records at Wake Forest University. Cal later joined his brother as a coach and together they achieved two more state championships at Mount Bethel.
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Boyd’s success continued when he took the helm at Tucker High School in 1996, winning a state championship in his inaugural season. He then moved on to Berkmar High School in Lilburn, where he guided the Patriots to back-to-back championships in 2000 and 2001.
Boyd’s most significant achievements came during his tenure at Milton High School. Under his leadership, the Eagles reached the championship game four times, securing two state titles in 2010 and 2012. The 2012 team’s success extended beyond the state level, as they also won two national tournaments and produced several Division I basketball scholarship recipients.
A Controversial Departure
In a shocking turn of events, Boyd left Milton High School in 2012 after the school self-reported “undue influence” regarding the recruitment of talented transfers. Despite maintaining his innocence, Boyd resigned when he was informed that he could no longer coach the teams.
Life Beyond Coaching
After retiring from coaching, Boyd remained an active member of the basketball community. He volunteered as an assistant coach at Brunswick High School and became a sought-after speaker at clinics across the country. Boyd even authored his autobiography, titled “The Life and Times of Hall of Fame Coach David Boyd.”
Remembering Coach Boyd
Coach Boyd’s impact extended far beyond his success on the court. His players remember him as a caring and dedicated mentor who pushed them to be their best both on and off the court. His teachings on work ethic, accountability, and treating others with respect continue to shape the lives of those he touched.
Coach Jonas Hayes, who played against Boyd in high school and later became a coach himself, described Boyd as “an unbelievable coach and disciplinarian” and “the definition of a winner.”
As the Georgia basketball community mourns the loss of Coach Boyd, his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in GHSA history and a compassionate mentor will live on. His impact on the lives of his players and the sport of basketball in Georgia is immeasurable.
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