By Colin Anderson | Photo By Cheryl Nichols Photography
Gunner Giulio, Senior Coeur d’Alene High School
Senior Gunner Giulio loves to compete. He enjoys and excels at both the team game of football and the more individualist challenge of high school wrestling. Both sports can take a toll on the body, but Gunner isn’t afraid of pushing the limits of what he can accomplish. “One lesson that has stuck with me is that success will not come without working hard,” he stated.
Whether that’s in the weight room, the practice field, or prepping for the next opponent, Gunner always strives to put in the full effort and to set an example for others around him. While just earning a spot on the highly competitive Vikings football team is an accomplishment, Gunner’s work ethic helped him see the field in each of his four years, earning All-League honors three times and 2nd team All-State honors twice as the Vikings’ primary running back.
On the wrestling mat he has also seen tremendous success; winning three state titles at his weight class. “Last year during wrestling season, I wrestled a returning state champion from Kuna, and I had lost twice to him. I came back during the state tournament and beat him in the state finals. I overcame this by working hard and listening to my coaches,” said Gunner. His accomplishments on the mat and the gridiron have led to Gunner being named North Idaho Athlete of the Year—twice.
Gunner will continue his athletic journey at the next level. He will enroll this fall at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, where he will suit up for the six-time NAIA national champion Fighting Saints football team. At Carroll he plans on looking into the physical therapy program based upon his own experiences with those who’ve helped him stay in top form throughout his career. “Over my high school years I have been in the physical therapist clinic a lot because of sports. I really just love the environment and how upbeat and positive everybody is.”
As he reflects on his time competing both as an individual and member of a large team, Gunner is thankful for all the experiences and what being part of both programs meant to him. “For wrestling, I love the competition and the grind it puts you through. For football, I love the friendships you make with your teammates,” he said.
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