When Willie Gaston took over as head coach of the North Shore Mustangs in February 2023, it wasn’t just a job—it was coming home.
Gaston, a former Mustang quarterback and two-time team MVP, grew up in the program before starring at the University of Houston and signing with the Baltimore Ravens. His coaching journey began in 2008 at his alma mater, working his way up from freshman coach to offensive coordinator, and now head coach of one of the nation’s most respected high school football programs.
A Path Chosen, Not Planned
For Gaston, the transition to coaching wasn’t part of the original plan. After his playing career, he was simply visiting his old coaches when an unexpected opportunity arose.
“I never set out to be a head coach,” Gaston said. “But when God chooses a path for you, you stay on it.”
Starting on offense—despite wanting to coach defense—helped him gain a deeper understanding of the game. Over time, he moved into special teams, defense, and then the offensive coordinator role before being named head coach when Jon Kay departed for Rice University.
Tradition, Discipline, and Standards
North Shore’s success isn’t a mystery—it’s built on a foundation of discipline.
“We pride ourselves on being a disciplined program,” Gaston said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a no-star or a five-star, everyone meets the same standard.”
That standard has made North Shore a model of consistency, with a culture that prepares players not just for Friday nights, but for the next level.
Community That Travels Anywhere
The Mustangs’ fan base—dubbed North Shore Nation—is one of the most passionate in Texas.
“We have people in the stands who were there when I played,” Gaston said. “They love their football team and they love this community.”
That loyalty extends beyond home games, with fans traveling across the state to support the Mustangs.
Eyes on 2025
Coming off a semifinal appearance last season, Gaston’s focus is on summer preparation, not revenge. The offseason emphasis? Getting bigger, faster, and stronger—while prioritizing nutrition, hydration, and sleep.
“It’s about controlling what we can right now,” Gaston said. “If we do the little things right, we’ll be ready for the long season ahead.”
With a hungry roster and a coaching staff that shares a unified vision, Gaston believes North Shore is poised to make another deep run.
“When everyone buys in and follows the same standard, the ceiling is limitless,” he said.
North Shore kicks off the 2025 season with the same expectation they’ve had for decades—compete at the highest level, every single week.
