Chris BallauerChris Ballauer is entering his 13th season at South Georgia Technical College and is now entering his 4th year as Jets Head Coach. He joined the coaching staff as an assistant coach for the Lady Jets in 2013, helping them begin their GCAA conference championship win streak. In 2014, Chris moved to the men’s side and has been an integral part of the program ever since. He holds an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts from Coastal Georgia Community College as well as a Bachelor of Science in Education of Exercise Science and Wellness from Georgia Southwestern State University.
A native of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Chris graduated from Central Gwinnett High School and went on the play basketball for the Brunswick Junior College Mariners. There he played for GCAA Hall of Fame Coach Gerald Cox and Assistant Coach James Frey. He later served as a coach along side those two mentors for 14 years. Their teams averaged 20 wins each season, winning a conference championship and going to the national tournament in 2002.
Along with his basketball duties, Chris also serves as an instructor in the Sports and Fitness Management program.
Chris currently resides in Americus with his wife, Ivy, and their 3 children, Hutch, Layla and Lindi.
Stephen BirchfieldStephen Birchfield has joined the Jets athletic staff as assistant coach for the Jets program. Birchfield come to South Georgia Tech after serving as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Brewton Parker College, where he guided the Barons to their first postseason victory in more than a decade and let the team to earn two SSAC Sportsmanship Awards-reflecting his strong emphasis on discipline, integrity, and team culture.
Prior to his collegiate head coaching role, Birchfield gained valuable experience at the high school level, serving as an assistant coach at Marietta High School for three years, South Paulding High School for two years, and New Manchester High School for three years. In each position, he oversaw player development, skill training, and the advancement of student-athletes to the collegiate level.
A native of Douglasville, Georgia, Birchfield holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Leadership from Randolph College and remains dedicated to fostering excellence, accountability, and personal growth among his players. His leadership and commitment to student-athlete success will continue to strengthen the proud tradition of South Georgia Technical College.
As assistant coach for the Jets, Birchfield will assist with recruiting, player development, scouting, and overall program operations. He brings extensive experience in coaching, leadership, and athlete development from his past experience at both the collegiate and high school levels.
In addition to his coaching duties, Birchfield will also serve as an instructor in the Sports & Fitness Management Program.
What they are saying about Coach Birchfield:
Georgia State University Head Coach Jonas Hayes
“Ray’s knowledge of the game of basketball is off the charts and his expertise in communicating that knowledge would be a huge advantage to South Georgia Tech. He is a true team player, and always fosters positive discussions and brings the best out of all that are connected to him.”
University of North Florida Head Coach Matthew Driscoll
“South Georgia Tech has hit a deep “3” on this hire. Ray Johnson is way more than a basketball coach. He walks the walk, instilling discipline, commitment, and consistency which embody the growth of not only the young men in the program but the entire campus and surrounding community. Ray’s success and passion for life has set personal high standards that translate and are necessary for sustained athletic, academic, and social impact that his player will embrace on a daily basis. Ray’s servant heart will truly shine in the light being a difference in everyone’s life.”
Arkansas State University Associate Head Coach Jamie Quarles
“Coach Johnson is a fantastic hire! He is a tireless worker. His experience is unmatched. Having worked on various levels all over the country, he has been a part of winning traditions in every program he has been a part of. I look forward to watching the continued growth and impact he will have on the program at South Georgia Tech.”