Harper Houk - Men's Swimming and Diving Coach - Grand Canyon University Athletics

Harper Houk

Title:
Assistant Coach
Email:
harper.houk@gcu.edu

Harper Houk begins his 2nd season as Grand Canyon's men’s and women’s swimming and diving assistant coach in the 2026-27 season.

During the 2025-26 season, the Lopes transitioned into new conference homes in the Mountain West and Big West while continuing their national success. Carter Dooling qualified for the men’s NCAA Championships after winning the 200-yard breaststroke title at the Big West Championships to earn an NCAA automatic qualifying bid. The men also placed third out of 30 teams at the CSCAA National Invitational Championship, while Taylor Stasny earned an NCAA B cut on the women’s side in a stacked Mountain West field.

Assistant coach Harper Houk brings a dynamic blend of coaching expertise, faith-driven leadership, and elite collegiate swimming experience.

As Assistant Coach with the Arizona Dolphins Swim Club (2024–2025), he partnered with coach Paul Root to guide athletes of varying ages, prioritizing technical excellence and holistic growth. Prior to that, Harper spent four seasons as Head Coach of the Gulf Park Blue Sharks in Tennessee, directing a summer league program of 150–175 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.

Outside the pool, he is a host and co-creator of the Superbold Podcast, a faith-based sports podcast featuring in-depth interviews with Grand Canyon University 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: he regularly participates in GCU’s weekly FCA Huddles, served as a guest speaker and swim coach at FCA’s January 2025 Swim Camp, and acted as a Huddle Leader at the FCA Summer Sports Camp in Flagstaff, Arizona.

As a student-athlete at Grand Canyon University, Harper was a three-time team captain and SAAC representative. He earned both the Roland L. Beck Award and the Thunder Award—recognitions of athletic excellence and strong character—and qualified for NCAA B cuts in multiple events, contributing as a key relay team member at the national level.