Completed Event: Men's Swimming and Diving at Hawaii on October 25, 2025 , Loss , 128, to, 134
M Swimming
at Hawaii
L 128-134
Grand Canyon University Athletics
Photo by: Jack Gilday
Lopes retain Houk as assistant coach
8/7/2025 3:30:00 PM | Men's Swimming and Diving, Women's Swimming and Diving
GCU alumnus brings added energy, culture to program
Grand Canyon's swimming and diving program added a key asset to its staff with the hiring of assistant coach Harper Houk, who brings a dynamic blend of coaching expertise, faith-driven leadership and elite collegiate swimming experience.
As assistant coach with Arizona Dolphins Swim Club (2024–2025), he partnered with former Dolphins coach and new GCU associate head coach Paul Root to guide athletes of varying ages, prioritizing technical excellence and holistic growth. Prior to that, Houk spent four seasons as head coach of the Gulf Park Blue Sharks in Tennessee, directing a summer league program of up to 175 swimmers. In that role, he oversaw all aspects of team operations — scheduling, staff management, athlete development, and maintaining strong communication with parents while fostering a fun and competitive environment.
"I am thrilled that Harper has joined our staff," Lopes head coach Steve Schaffer said. "He played a key role as part of our athlete leadership team during his career at GCU. He had a lot to do with developing the great team culture our men have, and he is going to continue to make important contributions to both our men's and women's teams."
As assistant coach with Arizona Dolphins Swim Club (2024–2025), he partnered with former Dolphins coach and new GCU associate head coach Paul Root to guide athletes of varying ages, prioritizing technical excellence and holistic growth. Prior to that, Houk spent four seasons as head coach of the Gulf Park Blue Sharks in Tennessee, directing a summer league program of up to 175 swimmers. In that role, he oversaw all aspects of team operations — scheduling, staff management, athlete development, and maintaining strong communication with parents while fostering a fun and competitive environment."I am thrilled that Harper has joined our staff," Lopes head coach Steve Schaffer said. "He played a key role as part of our athlete leadership team during his career at GCU. He had a lot to do with developing the great team culture our men have, and he is going to continue to make important contributions to both our men's and women's teams."
Outside the pool, Houk is a host and co-creator of the Superbold Podcast, a faith-based sports podcast featuring in-depth interviews with GCU athletes and coaches, exploring the intersection of athletics, faith and personal growth. His faith commitment extends to active involvement in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, regularly participating in GCU weekly FCA Huddles, serving as a guest speaker and swim coach at FCA's January 2025 Swim Camp and acting as a huddle leader at FCA Summer Sports Camp in Flagstaff.
As a GCU student-athlete, Harper was a three-time team captain and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee representative. He earned the Roland L. Beck Award and Thunder Award as recognitions of athletic excellence and strong character. He also qualified for NCAA B cuts in multiple events, contributing as a key relay team member at the national level.
"Harper brings a lot of energy to the team and will be a great complement to the rest of our staff," Schaffer said. "I think we all will raise the team to new heights in the seasons to come."
Players Mentioned
/ Men's Swimming and Diving
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