PLNU Athletics

John Gunther, a long time San Diegan, oversees the Sea Lion pitching staff. His PLNU hurlers have been among the best in the NAIA as proven by the team's two deep World Series runs and having four members signing professional contracts.

Gunther has coached at the high school and collegiate levels for nearly 40 years, bringing a wealth of experience to the position. His coaching stints include time at local Kearney and Point Loma high schools as well as San Diego State, Mesa College, the University of San Diego and UC San Diego.

Gunther earned his bachelor’s degree and teacher’s credential at UC Santa Barbara, beginning his coaching career with his alma mater in 1968. After coaching at UCSB and Carpinteria High School, he coached and taught at the University of the Pacific for three seasons.

After receiving his master’s degree at Pacific, Gunther moved to San Diego in 1972 and has coached and taught in the area ever since. In addition to his high school and college experience, Gunther coached various collegiate wood-bat summer league teams from 1973-98. Some highlights include a national championship with the Fairbanks Goldpanners and four league championships with the Beach City Cubs.

Gunther came to PLNU after serving as the pitching coach at UC San Diego for three seasons (2003-06).

John and his wife, Diane, have three sons and four grandchildren.