Born and raised in Stamford, Connecticut, in the heart of Southfield Village, Coach Jamal Dunmore grew up in a time when the streets were heavy with challenges—violence, drugs, and distractions that derailed the dreams of many. For him, sports became more than just a pastime—they became a lifeline. Baseball and basketball offered a safe haven, but it was a 9-inch growth spurt during the summer between 8th and 9th grade that solidified basketball as his path forward. From that moment on, the game would forever shape his destiny.

 

A standout athlete at Westhill High School, Coach Dunmore made an immediate impact on the basketball court. Over his 3-year varsity career, he scored over 1,000 points, grabbed more than 800 rebounds, and earned back-to-back All-FCIAC and All-State honors. His explosive talent and fierce competitiveness earned him McDonald’s All-American Honorable Mention and a ranking among the Top 60 high school seniors in the country in 1995. Locally, he was recognized as one of Connecticut’s top three players.

 

Coach Dunmore continued his success at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he was named New England Region Most Outstanding Player and a two-time 1st Team All-New England selection. Known for his high-flying dunks (averaging 7 per game!) and a remarkable 38-inch vertical leap, he left NVCC as the all-time leader in blocks for a game, season, and career.

 

His journey then took him to Iona University, where he played a crucial role in helping a well-rounded Gaels team to the 1998 MAAC (Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) regular season and tournament championships, earning a spot in the 1997–98 NCAA Tournament. 

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Coach Dunmore holds an associate degree in Business Management from NVCC, a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Iona University, and a master’s degree in Elementary Education. With over 20 years of experience as both an educator and a coach across elementary through high school levels, his mission remains unwavering: to develop student-athletes who are not only skilled competitors but also strong individuals.

 

“I strive to help athletes reach their fullest potential—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s about more than sports. It’s about growth, identity, and creating a personal standard of excellence.”

 

Coach Dunmore emphasizes the importance of joy in athletics, believing that fun, passion, and purpose must fuel the journey just as much as hard work and sacrifice. His unique ability to connect with young athletes stems from his own life story—a journey from adversity to achievement, built on faith, consistency, and resilience.

Through S.L.A.A.M., Coach Dunmore has dedicated himself to equipping the next generation with the tools, training, and mindset they need to succeed—not just on the court, but in life.

 

"I’ve come from a tough environment, but faith, passion, and perseverance gave me direction. Now, it’s my mission to pass those same tools on to tomorrow’s leaders.”
— Coach Jamal Dunmore