Former Olympian in U of M’s ranks

Students visiting the Recreation Center have an Olympic competitor in their midst.

A graduate of Ridgeway High School, Memphis Tiger Swimming Assistant Coach Gil Stovall swam for the University of Georgia in 2004 where famed swim coach Jack Bauerle coached him.

Seeing great potential, Bauerle told Stovall he wanted to train Stovall for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

"The Olympics was always a goal of mine — one you dream but are not quite sure it will happen. Once I was in college and started training at that level it boosted my confidence and made me think I had a chance," Stovall said.

After years of training, Stovall missed the opportunity for an Olympic medal by one-hundredth of a second.

He placed second in the 200-meter butterfly at the US Olympic Team Trials, qualifying him for a spot on the 2008 US Olympic Team.

Stovall said he feels grateful that he came so close to a medal, though a bit disappointed in the end.

"It was a pretty big disappointment considering I was favored to medal.  I ended up getting sick and things didn't work out as planned but you have to roll with it and be grateful for the experiences. I still got to be part of one of the most prestigious swim teams, so it works for me," Stovall said.

Stovall has now moved away from competitive swimming and is focusing on school and coaching.

Stovall is currently an assistant coach for Memphis Tiger Swimming, a year-round competitive swim team for ages five and up which is serviced by The U of M's Recreation Center. In addition, he is also the head coach for the swim team at Hutchison High School in East Memphis.

"I am constantly drawing on my swimming career to help kids. Today, I am very self aware and hyper sensitive and it helps explain to kids teaching techniques and how to deal with mental anguish," he said.

His future goals aim as high as his Olympic ones, as Stovall is currently working towards organizing a college swim team.

"It's a really healthy sport for body and mind. The people involved are well-rounded and intelligent people. It draws a good crowd and is a great community to be involved with," he said.