What was once just a hobby and personal interest in college has now turned career for geometry teacher Gabe Bourland. After working part-time for the Seattle Mariners as a strength and condition coach, Bourland was offered the job full-time and has taken the job.

Bourland has worked at SMHS specifically for 6 years and the Peoria Unified School District for 7.

“[I feel] kind of sad [to leave Sunrise],” Bourland said, “just because you develop friendships with people and I got attached to the place.

Though, Bourland will be leaving SMHS, he will be able to stay in the state of Arizona.

“The Mariners have a yearlong facility here,” Bourland said. “There are farm teams here and there are always guys rehabilitating injuries.”

Prior to the full-time offer, Bourland worked for the Mariners in the summer, during his off time from teaching. He said he is excited about his new job.

 “Just the fact that it’s professional sports [makes it exciting],” Bourland said. “It’s something I always wanted to do.”

Bourland first came across the idea of working for the Mariners after being introduced to their Strength and Conditioning Coordinator. The two began talking and from there it slowly turned into an internship and then became what it is now.

“I’m hoping it leads to bigger and better things,” Bourland said. “[I want] the area of strength and conditioning within sports and the program to get bigger.