When it comes to energy, excitement, and working with students, no one is better than Mr. Gawlik. Having been born and raised in Carol Stream, Illinois, he loved wrestling and never cared about not being in shape. While initially pursuing a career as either a strength and conditioning coach or personal trainer, he found that his passion lay in teaching and coaching. A meeting with Mrs. Sayers and the quality of community one finds here at Benet were enough, though, and he’s been a presence to be feared ever since.

On the field and on the court, Mr. Gawlik’s attitude is most accurately described as relaxed, down-to-earth, and truthful. He thinks of errors as opportunities to become better and trains students to do the same. “I just want kids to have a ball and enjoy life to its fullest ability,” he continues, a mantra he hopes all students carry with them upon their graduation. His favorite time of day is football practice when he can see students struggle and motivate one another.

Away from school, Mr. Gawlik is equally vibrant. He is a golfer, a weight trainer, steak grill master, and snowboarder. He’s even raced dirt bikes and owns a Harley, showing that he doesn’t lack the need for speed. Music is also part of his life: hip hop and rap are his genres of choice and Lil Wayne’s “Right Above It” is one of his favorite tracks. On TV, you can catch him watching Peaky Blinders or The Dark Knight.

What makes Mr. Gawlik the GOAT isn’t his teaching style or even what he enjoys doing away from class, it’s how he connects with people. He values the school tradition of sticking together and never cutting corners at building true, lasting relationships. A sophomore student stated that : “Mr. Gawkik makes you want to push yourself, but he also makes it fun. He’s the kind of teacher you’ll never forget.” With toughness, humor, and heart, Mr. Gawlik inspires students every day to live strong and live well.