Carly Dockendorf adds former club coach Mike Hunger as newest Red Rocks assistant

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah gymnastics head coach Carly Dockendorf has filled out her coaching staff with a veteran club coach.

On Thursday, Utah announced the hire of former Twin City Twisters club founder and coach Mike Hunger to the staff as an assistant coach, joining fellow assistant coaches Jimmy Pratt and Myia Hambrick.

Hunger comes to Utah after nearly 50 years of coaching experience, including his work with current and former Red Rocks gymnasts Grace McCallum, Abby Brenner and Abby Paulson, as well as his daughter Breanna Hughes.

"The addition of Mike to our program is monumental for Utah gymnastics," Dockendorf said in a statement. "His diverse experience and wealth of knowledge in the sport will greatly elevate our gymnasts and our staff. Mike is passionate about continuing to foster and develop excellence in his athletes both in the gym and in life."

Dockendorf said Hunger will coach Utah's vault team and assist on floor, while Pratt, who previously worked with the vault team, will coach bars. Hambrick will continue to be the lead coach on floor, with Dockendorf continuing her work with the beam team.

"I am beyond excited to join the Utah gymnastics program," Hunger said in a statement. "I have been dreaming about coaching in this program for some time now, and I am looking forward to bringing new perspectives, ideas and aspirations to the team. Utah gymnastics has and will always have a special place in my family's hearts, and now I get the opportunity to be more than just a fan in the stands. I cannot wait to get started!"

The news of his hiring was also supported by McCallum, who had Hunger as a personal coach as she pursued an Olympics dream where she earned a silver medal as one of the four members of Team USA.

"Mike is such an amazing person and I am honored to have him as my coach again," McCallum said in a statement. "He has so much to offer our program and will be a great addition to the staff. Not only is he a great coach, but he's also an amazing, kind, and genuine human. I'm excited for him to join our team."

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