Gadsden, AL — After more than two decades of leadership, mentorship, and success on the court, Buster Stewart, head coach of Gadsden State Community College’s men’s tennis team, is retiring.
“The decision to retire wasn’t easy because coaching has been such a big part of my life,” Stewart said. “But after 21 incredible years, I feel like it’s the right time. I’m proud of what we’ve built here, but I’m excited for the program to start a new chapter.”
Stewart’s bond with Gadsden State spans more than 50 years, beginning in 1971 when he enrolled as a student-athlete. Alongside his doubles partner, he earned the College’s first-ever tennis scholarship. During his time as a student, he also met his future wife, Paula, who would later become a key figure in his coaching journey.
After earning an associate degree in business administration from Gadsden State, Stewart transferred to Shorter College in Rome, Ga., where he completed his bachelor’s degree in economics and business administration in 1975. He returned to Gadsden State in 1977 to pursue engineering classes, which he completed in 1980.
In 2004, Stewart stepped into the role of head coach, launching a new era for the Cardinals tennis program. In their first season, the 2004-2005 team — which included their son, Trey — finished in the Top 20 nationally, marking the program’s first appearance at the national tournament since 1980. Under his leadership, the Cardinals captured back-to-back conference championships in 2010 and 2011.
Together with Paula, Stewart also founded the College’s annual Alumni Tournament, an October tradition that reunites former players and their families from across the region.
“We love the relationships we have with our players and their families,” Stewart said. “Seeing these guys grow up and bring their wives and children to the tournament is an absolute privilege that I don’t take for granted.”
Throughout his coaching career, Stewart emphasized character, perseverance, and life lessons beyond the tennis court.
“We always tell them to play hard, prepare, play fair, and never give up,” he said. “I hope they take that with them through life.”
He credits his success to a strong support system, including Paula, sons Trey and Taylor, and assistant coaches Andre Bentley and Dan Berry. Together, they helped shape generations of Cardinals, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in medicine, business, aviation, education, and engineering.
“We have former players who are doctors, nurses, accountants, businessmen, coaches, teachers, pilots, project managers – you name it,” Stewart said. “Some are working at Delta, FedEx, Honda, and Google. We are very proud of these men.”
Reflecting on his career, Stewart said coaching has been a learning experience for him as well.
“Coaching has taught me to treat people fairly and with respect,” he said. “And I try very hard to help the young people to not have any regrets when they leave Gadsden State.”
Although he’ll miss the daily practices and time with his players, Stewart is looking forward to retirement.
“I’ll miss the practices and the players most of all,” he said. “That’s where the heart of coaching lives – in the everyday effort, the small wins, the growth. Those are the moments I will always cherish.”
As advice for his successor, Stewart offered one key piece of guidance: “Recruit, recruit, recruit,” he said. “The game has changed. Recruiting is just as important, if not more important, than coaching the game.”
While he steps away from the sidelines, Stewart plans to remain an active supporter of Gadsden State.
“I plan to help more at church, spend time with my grandchildren, and go fishing and golfing,” he said. “Paula and I are Cardinals forever. We will always love Gadsden State.”
