By Saioa San Francisco
After more than 40 years of coaching, Dwight Gunnare, head coach of the Casper College women’s basketball team, has decided to retire at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season.
His career has been filled with victories, championship runs, and unforgettable experiences that shaped both himself and the players he coached. As Gunnare moves on to the next chapter, he shared his thoughts on the decision to step away and the journey that brought him here.
Reflecting on retirement, Gunnare expressed mixed emotions. “It’s going to be a big adjustment,” he explained. “I know I’m going to miss so much about coaching—working with young adults, being around incredible people—but I’m ready for a change. I’m 65, and I want a more flexible schedule to spend time with my wife, who’s retiring too.” While eager for the new opportunities retirement offers, Gunnare admitted, “It’s going to be a new adventure, and honestly, I’m a little nervous about it.”
Gunnare’s coaching career has spanned various levels, from high school basketball in Colstrip, Montana, to college basketball in Wyoming. Among all the memories, he said one moment stands out the most. “Last year’s national tournament with Casper College was unforgettable. The gym was packed, and the energy was unreal. I remember standing there wondering how my team felt playing in front of that kind of crowd. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
While coaching brought him many personal and professional rewards, Gunnare shared how it also shaped him as a person. “In my younger years, I wasn’t super organized or disciplined, but coaching changed that. It taught me how to be accountable and structured, which is a big reason I’ve stayed in it for so long.” He acknowledged, however, that the demands of the profession were challenging, especially when balancing family life. “Coaching is hard on families. It takes a lot of time, and you have to have a partner who understands that,” he explained. Despite the challenges, Gunnare emphasized the importance of prioritizing family when possible.
As for the future, Gunnare remains uncertain about what’s next. “I know coaching is still in my blood,” he stated, “but I also know whoever takes over at Casper College deserves to make it their program without me hanging around in the background.” While he is open to new opportunities, he plans to enjoy retirement and see where it takes him.
Looking back on his career, Gunnare hopes his legacy goes beyond basketball. “I hope people remember me as someone who brought in great student-athletes—kids who represented the college well, succeeded academically, and went on to do great things in life.”
Gunnare shared a piece of advice he’s carried throughout his career to younger coaches entering the profession: “Never make it about yourself. Be a teacher, explain why you’re doing things, and always check your intentions. If they’re not in the right place, it’ll show.”
For Gunnare, the relationships he’s built and the growth he’s witnessed in his players have been the most meaningful parts of his coaching career. “Seeing the light bulb go off for a player or watching a team accomplish something they didn’t think they could—it’s the best feeling in the world.”
Though Gunnare is stepping away from coaching, his contributions to Casper College and the basketball community will continue to resonate. His legacy is one of dedication, growth, and a commitment to helping young people succeed on and off the court.