Mike Hanie is an inductee for the third class of the Starr’s Mill Hall of Fame.

Hanie spent 22 years coaching Starr’s Mill soccer. From the school’s opening to his retirement in 2019, Hanie coached varsity girls soccer one season and varsity boys soccer his entire career.

During his time, he earned countless awards. Hanie was awarded Region Coach of the Year six times and State Coach of the Year two times. 

He led the team to win region nine times and state two times, in 2000 and in 2010. The boys were also state finalists one additional time in 2004, semifinalists in 2006 and 2018, and quarterfinalists on seven occasions.

“My experience at Starr’s Mill was challenging and rewarding,” Hanie said. “Every year brought new faces and personalities to the soccer program that needed to come together to form the ‘Team’.”

Hanie attended and graduated from Forest Park Senior High School. He was in the class of 1977. While in high school, he played baseball and soccer. During his senior year, Hanie was named to the All-State soccer team at the goalkeeper position.

Hanie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education at Berry College. While he worked toward his degree, he played on scholarship for the school’s men’s soccer team for four years.

After graduating from Berry, Hanie went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Education at Georgia Southern. To continue in his soccer journey, he spent his time as a graduate assistant for the men’s soccer team for two years.

Hanie is the eldest child of three. He has a younger sister and brother.  Hanie and his wife, Eve, have been married for 44 years. They have two children and five grandchildren.

“Since I retired, my time has been devoted to caring for elderly parents, being a grandfather to five grandchildren, camping and traveling with my wife, and participating in projects to help others,” Hanie said.

Hanie’s favorite memories from his time include his two state championships, and any time the team defeated McIntosh. He also emphasizes his appreciation toward the players and coaches that were part of the program with him.

“The advice I would give students is that life is about relationships,” Hanie said. “There is no substitute for hard work.”