Michael Gunner
Class of 2020
Mike Gunner’s path to becoming one of Alabama’s most celebrated swim coaches began with a rather unpromising start. At age 10, swimming lessons were a family mandate, but Gunner took years to move beyond the beginner’s level. It wasn’t until he started outpacing his peers in races that he developed a passion for the sport.
Decades later, Gunner retired after a 35-year coaching career that saw him lead 10 high school swim teams to state championships, including an impressive tenure at Bob Jones High School. “It took time, but I eventually caught on,” he says, reflecting on the journey that transformed him from a struggling swimmer to a leader in the sport.
Gunner’s coaching career was defined by unparalleled success. Under his guidance, the Bob Jones boys' swim team captured seven consecutive state titles from 2004 to 2010, adding two more in 2014 and 2015. The girls’ team also claimed a state championship in 2007. In total, Bob Jones swimmers secured 104 championship events during Gunner’s tenure, earning him numerous accolades, including five National Federation Boys State Coach of the Year awards.
Coaching wasn’t initially in Gunner’s plans. In 1997, he was an accountant and part-time musician when his wife Christian encouraged him to return to college to pursue elementary education. Shortly after earning his degree, Gunner began teaching and coaching, eventually taking over as head coach at Bob Jones. “It was like the script was written for me,” he says of the seamless transition.
Gunner’s coaching philosophy was a mosaic of influences. He borrowed from his own age-group coach’s tough-love approach, as well as the technical expertise of others like Roger von Jouanne, who coached Madison’s summer program. Surprisingly, some of his inspiration came from football, watching Athens High coach Steve Rivers interact with his players. Rivers, married to Gunner’s sister, also happens to be the father of NFL quarterback Philip Rivers.
Outside the pool, Gunner’s musical talents flourished. A keyboardist, saxophonist, and occasional singer, he performed with The Flashbacks, a popular local band. Over the years, Gunner has backed artists like Percy Sledge and Hank Williams Jr., though he now considers music a hobby.
From reluctant swimmer to a championship-winning coach, Gunner’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and passion. “I’ve been fortunate,” he says. “It all turned out pretty well.”
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