With meticulous coaching and a passion for excellence, Jonathan Gilbert aims to build a dynasty and inspire the next generation.

Words by Thomas Ingle | Images by Justin Hunter

As you enter the Cordova High School gymnasium, the aroma of concessions in the air and the sound of shoes squeaking against the waxed court greet you. Amid the bustling activity, you spot someone dressed in a suit. Is that a college scout? No, it's Jonathan Gilbert, the sharpest-dressed coach in Walker County.

The cohesive, polished look that Gilbert sports for every game represents his coaching style: meticulous, professional, and always striving for excellence.

Born and raised in Oakman, Jonathan has always had a deep-rooted Wildcat pride. During his high school years at Oakman, he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. After graduating in 2006, he attended the University of West Alabama (UWA), earning a bachelor's degree in history in 2013 and a master's degree in education from the University of North Alabama (UNA) in 2020.

Jonathan was inspired to pursue teaching and coaching by two influential figures during his school years. "Chris Cummings taught at Oakman for a couple of years and inspired me, as did a man named Kurt Miller. By eighth grade, I wanted to be a history teacher and coach to change kids' lives as they changed mine," he says.

Although he initially aspired to coach football, Jonathan's coaching career began in basketball. He started as the head middle school basketball coach and assistant varsity basketball coach at his alma mater. His efforts quickly paid off, with the Wildcats becoming two-time runners-up in the county and two-time area and sub-state tournament winners under his guidance.

After four successful years at Oakman, Jonathan took a position at Bankhead Middle School, where he coached the girls' basketball team. Despite a challenging start, with his first team winning only two games, they still made it to the county championship. The following season, the Blue Devils clinched the championship title. Jonathan also coached the boys' team for two years, securing the county championship in his second year and repeating the victory the following year.

Jonathan's coaching career continues today at Cordova High School, where he initially assisted the varsity boys' team. In the fall of 2023, he was promoted to head coach of the varsity girls, leading them to a county championship victory. "We had many goals last season, one being county. We had bigger goals but fell short. We are blessed to have another year to try and achieve them because I want to make a run," Jonathan shares.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 season, Jonathan is implementing a junior varsity team to help develop younger players. "We are getting girls from eighth grade, and some are not ready, so junior varsity will help them learn and prepare for varsity. It will benefit the program overall," he explains.

Jonathan's coaching philosophy centers around fast play and strong defense, emphasizing skill development. His passion and dedication are contagious. "Everybody on the bench is clapping, and the energy is strong. I want us to be fun to watch," he says.

Whether in the classroom or on the court, Jonathan Gilbert gives his best and expects the same from his students. His goal is to build an athletic dynasty in Cordova and create a reputation for excellence among those he inspires. 78