After 42 years of coaching, including stints at the high school and collegiate levels, Grapevine head football coach Bob DeBesse has announced his retirement. DeBesse, who led the Mustangs for two seasons, informed administration, staff, and players of his decision on Nov. 11.
“It has been the honor of my professional career to have served as a Texas High School Football Coach,” DeBesse shared in a heartfelt letter to Grapevine families. He expressed gratitude for the relationships built and life lessons imparted, emphasizing the unique impact of high school coaching on young athletes.
DeBesse’s coaching career spanned decades, including positions at TCU, Minnesota, New Mexico, Georgia Southern, and Texas A&M. He also served as head coach at Texas State from 1997 to 2002. After joining Grapevine in 2019 as offensive coordinator, he was promoted to head coach in 2023. His first season ended with a 6-5 record and a playoff appearance, but the team struggled in 2024, finishing 0-10.
Citing a desire to spend more time with family, DeBesse’s last day with Grapevine-Colleyville ISD will be Dec. 20. “I will miss our staff, families, and students but will forever be a Mustang!” DeBesse wrote. Grapevine now begins the search for a coach to guide the program back to success.
