Episode 116: North Shore Mustangs Head Coach and District Athletics Coordinator Willie Gaston

Host Taylor Arenz kicks off the new season of the Texas HS Football Podcast with a deep-dive conversation with one of Texas high school football’s most iconic figures, North Shore Mustangs head coach and district athletics coordinator Willie Gaston. 

A Mustang through and through, Gaston’s journey has come full circle, from growing up in the community and playing under the Friday night lights in Mustang red, to starring at the University of Houston, spending time in the NFL, and now leading one of the top programs in the nation.

In this episode, Taylor and Coach Gaston talk about North Shore’s current offseason grind, the traditions that have stood the test of time, his favorite memories as a player, and what it feels like to be at the helm of a program that’s become a Texas and a national powerhouse. They break down the response from the team after last year’s semifinal run, the unique edge this 2025 squad brings to the table, and the mindset that keeps the Mustangs consistently on top.

Plus, Coach Gaston opens up in a rapid-fire Q&A, revealing his coaching style in one word, his biggest inspirations, what he does to unwind, and even his bucket list stadium to coach in. Whether you’re a North Shore fan, a Texas high school football diehard, or just love a good full-circle success story, this is one you don’t want to miss!