James Gordon joined the Savannah State University football staff in 2026 as the program’s Director of Equipment Operations, bringing a decade of experience in athletic equipment operations along with a diverse background in athletics, education, community engagement and military service.
A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Gordon attended Edisto High School, where he was a multi-sport student-athlete, lettering in football, basketball and swimming.
Gordon continued his education at Claflin University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Recreation in 2016. While at Claflin, he developed a passion for working with and mentoring young people through several community-based internships. Throughout his undergraduate career, Gordon worked with summer youth programs and served in athletic director roles at multiple camps.
Following his graduation from Claflin, Gordon continued his education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. From 2017-19, he served as a graduate assistant with the Aggies’ equipment operations staff, gaining valuable experience supporting one of the premier HBCU football programs in the country.
During his first tenure in Greensboro, Gordon was part of North Carolina A&T teams that captured Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championships and Celebration Bowl championships, providing him firsthand experience working within a championship-caliber collegiate football program.
Following his time at North Carolina A&T, Gordon transitioned into education, serving as Dean of Students at Northeast Guilford High School. He also remained connected to athletics as a football and basketball coach at Mendenhall Middle School, allowing him to continue mentoring and developing young student-athletes.
Gordon returned to North Carolina A&T in 2023 as an Assistant Equipment Manager for Athletics, expanding his experience in collegiate equipment operations and working with student-athletes, coaches and staff across the Aggies’ athletic department.
In addition to his career in athletics and education, Gordon serves in the United States military as a Religious Affairs Noncommissioned Officer (NCO). His military experience has helped shape a leadership philosophy centered around service, accountability, teamwork and maintaining a positive environment.
Gordon brings 10 years of athletic equipment experience to Savannah State. His background extends well beyond equipment operations, allowing him to build meaningful relationships with student-athletes, coaches and staff while emphasizing positivity, service and a winning mindset.
As Director of Equipment Operations, Gordon oversees the day-to-day equipment needs of Savannah State football while helping ensure the Tigers’ student-athletes and coaching staff have the resources and support necessary to prepare, practice and compete at a high level.
