Kevin Hardy, a two-time national football champion and three-sport monogram winner at the University of Notre Dame, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, in Northern California.
A defensive tackle for the Fighting Irish football team, Hardy was a key member of the 1966 national championship team and the first student-athlete in 19 years to earn monograms in three sports. From 1964 to 1965, Hardy was a first-team defensive tackle, a key backup on the basketball team that advanced to the NCAA Tournament, and a regular right fielder on the baseball team. Hardy led the 1967 Notre Dame baseball team with a batting average of .398.
Hardy did not play varsity football in his first year at Notre Dame, as freshmen were not eligible to play until 1972. As a sophomore in 1964, Hardy recorded 38 tackles and blocked two kicks. Although his junior season was limited due to a back injury, he was granted an extra year of eligibility and was named to the All-American team on the 1966 National Championship team, amassing 79 tackles and completing four passes. Earned first team honors. He converted to defensive end in 1967, recording 33 more tackles, and was selected in the first round (seventh overall) by the New Orleans Saints in the 1968 NFL Draft.
However, Hardy did not play for the Saints, as he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers as compensation for his free agent contract. During his professional career, Hardy played for the 49ers, Green Bay Packers, and San Diego Chargers.
Hardy is survived by his son Danny (daughter-in-law Julie Hardy), daughter Shannon Kuhl (son-in-law Chris Kuhl and grandson Kevin), and sisters Mary and Barbara.
