Former Hofstra football coach Gardi dies at 71

Joe Gardi, who was responsible for ushering Hofstra football into the scholarship era, died Wednesday from complications of a stroke suffered eight days ago, his son Dave confirmed.

He was 71.

Gardi, who came to Hempstead after five years as an assistant supervisor for NFL officials, compiled a 119-62-2 record in 16 years (1990-2005) at Hofstra and led the Pride to the NCAA playoffs six times.

The best season for Gardi was his first, when he led the Pride to its third undefeated regular season (10-0). Hofstra finished that season 12-1 overall and advanced to the Division III national semifinal.

Under Gardi, Hofstra made the jump from Division III to Division I-AA in 1994. Gardi led Hofstra to two 10-plus-win seasons and five playoff appearances as a Division I-AA program.

But Gardi did more than just pile up wins. He developed players.

New Orleans Saints receiver Marques Colston, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Willie Colon and former Jets receiver Wayne Chrebet and 10-year NFL safety Lance Schulters all played for Gardi at Hofstra.

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Friends of Gardi emphasized Gardi's demeanor off the field.

"When we came to Hofstra 16 years ago, Joe was like a stepfather to me and Jay [Wright]," former Hofstra men's basketball coach Tom Pecora said. "He went out of his way to embrace us."