Warners, John (2014)

John Warners began his teaching career at Grand Rapids Christian High School in 1957. The Warners family remains synonymous with Grand Rapids Christian – his children all graduated from the system, two of them are teachers here, and several of his grandchildren have graduated or currently attend Christian High.

John’s coaching career includes starting up girls basketball in 1959-1960 using funds from sandwich sales. He coached boys cross country for 26 years (1960-1986) with a record of 162-46 earning 19 conference titles, 3 regional titles, and 1 state runner-up. John started the girls cross country program in 1979, and served as their coach for seven years with a 40-2 dual record, seven undefeated conference titles, and 4 regional titles, including a state title in 1979. John also coached track for 15 years with Ken Bokhoven winning the girls track state title in 1980. Coach Warners holds the distinction of being the only coach to win two titles in the same year. His peers selected him as the MHSAA cross country coach of the year twice.

John Warners will be fondly remembered as a leader of young men and women with a servant heart who embodied the spirit of Christ-centered education and athletics.

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”    Isaiah 40:30-31