Calhoun Announces Anthony “AJ” Daugherty As New Athletics Director

Calhoun Community College announces that Anthony "AJ" Daugherty, former University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Head Softball Coach, has been named its new Director of Athletics.

With an impressive coaching career marked by numerous accolades, Daugherty's dedication and expertise are evident. He boasts a career record of 511-219 (70% winning percentage) and a collegiate coaching record of 312-112 (74% winning percentage). In 2022, he was honored as the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Coaching Staff of the Year.

At UAB, Daugherty's coaching abilities shone through. In his first season, he was named the 2023 Conference USA Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, the team achieved an overall record of 29-25 and a league mark of 16-8. He guided Senior catcher Sierra Fraizer to become the Conference USA Player of the Year, with several players earning First Team All-Conference USA honors.

Daugherty's time at Wallace State Community College was equally impressive. Over six seasons, he achieved an overall record of 260-58 (.818) and was named the Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) Coach of the Year twice, along with National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) South Regional Coaching Staff of the Year honors in 2021 and 2022. He led Wallace State to the NJCAA National Tournament four times in five seasons, winning the ACCC/NJCAA Region XXII Championship in 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2022.

Before Wallace State, Daugherty founded the softball program at James Clemens High School in Madison,AL, leading the team to its first Area and Regional Championship and a fourth-place finish in the state. He also held coaching positions at American Christian Academy and Holy Spirit Catholic High School.

Daugherty graduated from the University of Alabama in 2008 with a Bachelor of Secondary Education and a minor in social sciences. During his time at Alabama, he served as a student manager for the Crimson Tide softball team. He and his wife, Allison, have two children, son Connor and daughter Caroline.

"Calhoun Community College is delighted to welcome Anthony Daugherty as its new Director of Athletics," commented Dr. Jimmy Hodges, Calhoun President. "His commitment to excellence and education is expected to inspire and enhance the college's athletic program, fostering a dynamic and competitive environment for all student-athletes," Hodges added.