Philip Rivers high school coach career: Inside Colts QB's time coaching son Gunner in Alabama

Jake Mozarsky

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Philip Rivers high school coach career: Inside Colts QB's time coaching son Gunner in Alabama image

The whistle of a high school football field in Fairhope, Alabama, was Philip Rivers’ new normal -- a place where the eight-time Pro Bowler could finally live out his dream of coaching the St. Michael Catholic High School Cardinals, instructing his sons, and even meticulously mowing the turf himself. The competitive fire of the NFL seemed a distant, glorious memory, replaced by the fulfilling routines of a family man and revered local coach.

But when a devastating rash of injuries left the Indianapolis Colts' quarterback depth chart completely decimated, the siren song of the professional gridiron proved too loud to ignore. Just days after signing to the Colts’ practice squad, the 44-year-old grandfather swapped his clipboard for a helmet, coming out of a five-year retirement to make one of the most improbable comebacks in league history. Sunday, Rivers took the field for the Colts' crucial Week 15 road contest against the formidable Seattle Seahawks.

As Rivers made his pro return, let's take a look at the past few years where he took on a different role in football.

MORE: Philip Rivers' stats in his first NFL game since 2021

What high school does Philip Rivers coach at?

Rivers coaches at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Ala.

Since retiring from the NFL after the 2020 season, Rivers took on the role of head football coach, fulfilling a long-stated goal of coaching his children and giving back to the sport at the high school level. A native of Alabama, Riversmade a commitment to the private school before his final NFL season, and his presence transformed the program.

Under his leadership, St. Michael Catholic, which has a small enrollment, has become a powerhouse in its class, reaching the state semifinals in multiple seasons. He has been lauded by his players and fellow staff for his dedication, which includes everything from running an advanced offensive scheme — similar to the one the Colts currently run — to personally attending to details like mowing the football field.

The surprise return of Rivers to the Colts in late 2025 forced him to briefly step away from his high school coaching duties. However, he left with the full support of the St. Michael Catholic community, who were excited to see their coach get an unexpected opportunity to play in the NFL again.

Rivers has stated he fully intends to return to the sidelines in Fairhope once his NFL commitment with the Colts is over.

MORE: Updated chances for Colts to make playoffs

Philip Rivers high school coaching record

Rivers has an excellent coaching record at St. Michael Catholic High School. In his five seasons as head coach, he has led the Cardinals to a remarkable overall record of 43-15.

When Rivers took over the program in 2021, the small private school was relatively new to competitive football. Under his guidance, however, the Cardinals have become a local powerhouse, achieving consecutive 4A state semifinal appearances in their last two completed seasons (2024 and 2025).

In the most recent 2025 season, right before his surprising NFL return, Rivers' team finished with an outstanding 13-1 record, only losing in the state semifinals. 

MORE: Why Philip Rivers gets to share No. 17 with Daniel Jones

Who is Gunner Rivers?

Gunner is Philip Rivers' eldest son, who is currently quarterback of the St. Michael Catholic football team.

Rivers is a highly-touted four-star quarterback recruit in the Class of 2027. He plays for his father's team at St. Michael Catholic, wearing his dad's familiar No. 17 jersey. Reports indicate he is a top-ranked quarterback in his class and has already received offers from major college football programs, including his father's alma mater, NC State.

At 17 years old, Gunner is the oldest son among Philip Rivers' ten children. 

MORE: Everything to know about Philip Rivers' family

Senior Editor