Mike Swearingen, the former Football Coach at Imperial High School and history teacher at Irvine Valley College, passed away on October 8, 2025.
The longtime Imperial Tigers Football Coach, Mentor, and Supporter, reportedly underwent surgery over the summer and looked perfectly fine.
He was also last seen by a student supporting the Tigers at the Imperial Valley League.
R Jernigan, a former student and a friend, posted a heartfelt tribute to the late Coach after the unfortunate demise.
Today’s a sad day. I lost of a mentor (Coach Mike Swearingen) who was a phenomenal history teacher and a good friend. I am blessed that I was able to reconnect within the last several months. He will be missed and never forgotten. My condolences go out to his family, his sons, and his wife.
Mike Swearringan loved both coaching football and instructing the students’ History lessons, whether it be at IVC or Independence High School.
Hundreds of Tributes for the late Coach
Hundreds of students have paid tribute and offered condolences to the late football coach and History teacher.
One of Mike’s former students shared his rise in career as a coach and how the coach helped shape the student’s career.
“Great coach! Great mentor. Great Man. 2007 got me into coaching high school football as a freshman co-head coach at Southwest. 2018 Varsity D coordinator at Calipat. Gonna miss the Weekly Friday morning coffee club with the old guys, coaches club!” wrote Kenneth Williams.
According to many students, it has a critical and influential impact on the lives of many athletes and students.
He will definitely be missed, but his coaching style, teaching methods, and legacy will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Some students have even claimed they took the History degree just because of Mike. “Oh, Coach. My most favorite teacher ever. He left such an impression on me and is why I got my US history degree and became obsessed w the civil war. He gave me so much confidence. I truly loved him. Rest easy, coach.”
Many recalled his trademark sayings, sense of humor, and the discipline he instilled in everyone he taught.
Those who knew him praised his humor, discipline, and generosity, saying his lessons and legacy will be remembered for years to come.
