Bryant Hayman was an outstanding two-sport athlete at Ware County High School from 200811, excelling in both football and baseball.
He played varsity football for three years and varsity baseball for four years. Hayman played quarterback during his sophomore and junior seasons transitioning to tight end as a senior. He helped lead Ware County to the 2011 region championship and earning a spot on the all-Region team.
While his achievements on the football field were remarkable, they pale in comparison to the legacy he left on the baseball diamond. An elite baseball player, he showcased incredible talent both at the plate and behind it — whether hitting, catching, or pitching.
A versatile and dominant player, Hayman set and then tied the school home run record twice, each time with 11 home runs. He also threw two no-hitters during his high school career.
Known for his power at the plate and his ability to throw heat from the mound — reaching speeds of 93 mph as a senior — he developed into one of the best catchers in the state and one of the most accomplished players in Ware County history.
Hayman’s dedication and skill earned him numerous accolades, including all-Region honors during his 10th, 11th, and 12th grade years, as well as All-State recognition as a senior. Locally, he was honored with both the Most Outstanding Baseball Player and Most Valuable Player awards.
A proud member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes throughout high school, Hayman carried his commitment to excellence and faith beyond the field.
After high school, he continued his baseball career with the Valdosta State Blazers, where his talent and passion for the game shone brightly. Nicknamed “Happy” by his teammates for his ever-present smile and love of the sport, he enjoyed an impressive fouryear career with the Blazers.
Hayman earned First Team All-Conference honors all four years and was named Gulf South Conference Freshman of the Year in 2012. His remarkable achievements also included being selected to the Gulf South Conference All-Decade First Team, earning All-Gulf South Conference and All-Region honors, and being named the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Male Student-Athlete of the Year in 2015.
In 2015, Hayman’s talent caught the attention of professional scouts. He signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Twins organization. Unfortunately, his promising professional career was cut short by injury.
Following his baseball career, Hayman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in 2022 and began working as a Project Forest Manager.
Though no longer playing baseball, he remained dedicated to the sport by offering hitting and fielding lessons to young athletes. His passion for the game and desire to share his love of baseball with the next generation made a lasting impact on countless kids.
In 2022, he became a community coach at Brantley County High School, where he continued to share his knowledge and enthusiasm.
Hayman was a devoted husband to Morgan Thomas Hayman and a loving father to their son, Charlie. He was the beloved son of John and Heather Hayman, the son-in-law of Albert and Angie Thomas, the brother of Ashley Wilson (husband Tanner), and uncle to their daughter, Sara Kate.
Hayman went to be with the Lord December 20, 2023, at the age of 31 after a courageous battle with illness. His memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, as well as those who had the privilege of watching him play the game he cherished.
Through his hard work, dedication and passion for the game, Hayman rightfully earned his way into the Waycross-Ware County Sports Hall of Fame.
