Mammoth Community Mourns the Passing of Beloved Coach and Mentor, Tom Gault

y 31, 2025 — Mammoth Lakes, CA

With heavy hearts, Mammoth High School announces the passing of longtime teacher, head football coach, musician, and esteemed community pillar Tom Gault, who passed away on July 30, 2025.

A Legacy of Leadership and Heart

For over three decades, Coach Gault led the Mammoth Huskies football program with unwavering dedication. His commitment helped shape the team's spirit, leading the Huskies to notable victories and competitive success within the Desert Mountain League. His return in the 2010 season, after a brief retirement, exemplified his enduring devotion—he famously told his players, “I’m not interested in yesterday … we’re moving forward.”

Beyond wins and losses, Coach Gault was a mentor who prioritized character over scoreboard. A former assistant recalled, “Coaches can care about winning or care about the kids they are coaching. He cared about the kids more than winning.” 

More Than a Coach: A Musician and Community Icon

Coach Gault’s impact extended well beyond the football field. A passionate guitarist and singer, he dedicated over forty years to sharing music with the community. He co-founded the bands Good Livin’ and Flashback, performing rock ‘n roll throughout Mammoth Lakes for nearly three decades—including impromptu shows at local spots like Tioga Gas Mart.

Honors and Recognition

In October 2023, Mammoth High School formally acknowledged Coach Gault’s extraordinary contributions with a Lifetime Achievement Award during a home football game. Before kickoff—an emotional and unforgettable moment—he addressed the team in the locker room, imparting wisdom about perseverance, heart, and the importance of community. That evening captured the essence of his influence: a coach who was truly the heart of the program.

Enduring Remembrance

Mammoth High School’s football stadium stands as a lasting tribute—officially bearing his name as a reminder of his legacy and the countless lives he shaped.

Community in Mourning and Celebration

His passing has elicited a wave of heartfelt tributes from players, families, and residents:

“He was one of those irreplaceable humans … He helped form people’s lives at Mammoth High School … RIP Tom Gault.” – Dan McConnell“He cared about the kids more than winning… Amazing human.” – Dennis Cammack

Looking Ahead

Plans to honor Coach Gault’s memory are being finalized, including a tribute to Coach Gault at Husky Fest 2025, and will be shared with the community soon. As we collectively grieve, we also celebrate the imprint of a mentor, musician, and man who embodied the soul of Mammoth High School.

Coach Tom Gault may be gone in person—but his passion, integrity, and spirit live on in the halls, hearts, and history of the Mammoth community.