Sometimes the best partnerships begin with a shared passion. One couple at Newport News Shipbuilding started their story on the basketball court.

“We met during a travel basketball meet and exchanged social media information. The rest is history,” said Ieshia Gainey (O22). “It was destined. I manifested meeting my wife and us coaching together,” said Michael Gainey Jr. (X23) jokingly.

Michael’s journey at NNS began right after high school when he enrolled at The Apprentice School. “It gave me a great foundation. I was able to work with my hands, learn a trade and focus on becoming a great leader in the company,” he said.

Michael has come full circle at the school, first as an apprentice and athlete and later becoming a production planner and the head men’s basketball coach.

Before coming to The Apprentice School, Ieshia played professional basketball overseas. Taking Michael’s advice she volunteered with the women’s team. Nearly three years later, she continues to build her career serving as the assistant athletic director and head women’s basketball coach.

Coaching has deep roots for the couple. Michael grew up around the game. His parents have coached for more than 40 years.

“I’ve been in the gym my whole life,” he said. “It’s my passion. I love giving back through basketball.”

For Ieshia, coaching was shaped by her own experiences. Her adoptive mother coached her travel basketball team. “She changed my life completely,” Ieshia said. “Seeing what she did for me made me want to do the same thing for other girls. If I can touch just one soul, I’m happy.”

Working and coaching together brings a unique connection for the Gaineys.

“With other couples, you may not know what or who they’re talking about when talking about their day at work,” Ieshia said. “We can talk for hours and really understand what the other person is saying.”

Both see their roles as bigger than basketball.

“It’s about leading the next generation of shipbuilders,” Michael said. “We’re learning together and helping each other become better leaders.”

Ieshia often reflects on Michael’s path through The Apprentice School and the leadership he demonstrates. “I had never heard of the school before he told me about it,” she said. “Once I learned more, I was really impressed. It’s not easy. Watching him lead these young men and keep them on the right path is inspiring.”

Michael also finds inspiration in Ieshia. “Her toughness and grit stand out,” he said. “Seeing the women buy into what she’s teaching and watching her passion and dedication – it’s beautiful to see.”

They remind their players that basketball is only part of the journey. “You can’t come here solely to play a sport,” he said. “First and foremost, you want to be an apprentice and shipbuilder. Then everything else falls in line.”

Ieshia highlights life lessons as well. She reminds her players that their time playing basketball will eventually come to an end.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime,” she said. “You might not see it right away, but you’ll see it down the road. When the basketball stops dribbling, what’s your next plan?”

They each led their teams to a successful 2025-26 season, winning their New South Atlantic Conference Tournament championships. It was the first conference championship in program history for the women.

Through their careers and coaching, they’re not just building teams – they’re helping to build the future.