ONEONTA, N.Y. – Executive Director of Athletics Paul Vecchio has announced the appointment of Josh Bigford as the next head coach of the Hartwick women's volleyball program, effective April 2.
A familiar face on Oyaron Hill, Bigford takes the reins after spending the last three seasons as an assistant coach under legendary head coach Janet Donovan, who will retire in April. During his time on staff, Bigford helped usher in a new era of success for the Blue and White.
In his first season with the Hawks in 2023, Hartwick earned its first regional ranking in program history. Building on that momentum, Bigford also played a key role in helping the program secure its first All-American honor when standout setter Braelyn Hornick earned AVCA Honorable Mention All-America recognition in 2024.
The Hawks continued to reach new heights during his tenure, advancing to the Empire 8 Championship for just the second time in program history and finishing as runner-up after battling nationally ranked St. John Fisher. Hartwick capped the 2025 campaign with another milestone, capturing the ECAC Championship, the first postseason title in program history.
"Our women's volleyball program has had remarkable, and unprecedented, success the past three seasons with Josh serving a key role as our assistant coach. His work in year one of building our men's program has solidified my belief that he has all the qualities of being an outstanding head coach – a terrific ability to relate to our student-athletes, tremendous knowledge of the game and an ability to recruit at a high level. Our volleyball programs are in great hands with Josh moving forward and I look forward to our women's team continuing to compete for championships!"
Bigford currently serves as the head coach of Hartwick's inaugural men's volleyball program. In the midst of its first season, the Blue and White have already made significant strides. The first-year program has recorded five wins while competing against some of the region's top talent, including nationally ranked programs such as St. John Fisher, Misericordia, and Hobart.
"I am very excited and would like to thank Paul Vecchio for giving me this opportunity to lead the Women's Volleyball program. This is a special group that I have had the pleasure of working with for the past three years. Coach Donovan has left the program in a wonderful place and I am honored to have had the chance to work with and learn from her. I am excited for the future of Hartwick Women's Volleyball and to see us continue to grow."
About Hartwick College:
Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.
