Gym teacher Gunner Johnson is a lifelong Spartan. Johnson has gone from being a three sport athlete, to now being a coach for three sports and a full time gym teacher. He’s been very impactful for the community as he has built countless relationships with players and students.

Johnson played baseball, football, and basketball and was voted all-conference twice for baseball. This led to him receiving offers from many colleges including University of Wisconsin-Superior and the University of Mississippi. Johnson highly considered going to Mississippi because he had family down there but ultimately decided to stay in Superior.

Johnson started out as a pitcher for the Yellowjackets, until he developed arm problems and had to move to the outfield. Johnson may have had a passion for baseball, but he also had an interest in teaching. He started out as an elementary education major and later switched to a physical education major with a minor in coaching. 

“I thought if I couldn’t play baseball, then I might as well coach,” Johnson stated.

In 2022, Johnson was hired as the JV baseball coach. His love for sports and interest in helping kids learn to be better athletes and baseball players played a big part in his decision to become a coach. Baseball coaches Ryan Hendry and Don Dembroski taught Johnson how to be a better coach. 

“I think Gunner was a great baseball coach. He brought a great source of energy to the team and allowed players to be themselves and have fun,” said junior pitcher Carter Gilbertson. 

In 2023, Johnson decided to start out as a substitute teacher to prepare him for being a gym teacher the next year. Johnson decided to teach because his family had experience in teaching and he wanted to build relationships with students.