Silver City, NM - Western New Mexico University and Head Football Coach, Billy Hickman have announced the addition of Coach Bryce Dempsey to be the Defensive Coordinator, bringing a diverse background in player development, defensive leadership, and Division II success.
"We're excited to welcome Coach Bryce Dempsey to the Mustang family as our new Defensive Coordinator." Head Coach Hickman said. "Bryce already has incredible experience and is also an Arizona native, so his fit in our program is exactly what we're looking for. He brings a strong defensive mindset and a commitment to building a physical, disciplined unit. I'm confident his leadership will help elevate our defense and drive us forward as a program."
Coach Dempsey joins the Mustangs with over a decade of coaching experience, including eight years in collegiate football and three years at the high school level. His coaching journey spans multiple defensive positions and leadership roles, beginning as a student assistant at Valparaiso University in 2018, where he worked in the safety role. He then went on to coach Mercyhurst University in a variety of capacities, including outside linebackers, defensive line, linebackers, and safeties, while also serving as Special Teams Coordinator and Defensive Coordinator for multiple seasons. Most recently, Dempsey served as a Defense Analyst at Notre Dame in 2024 before returning to Mercyhurst in 2025 as their linebacker coach and defensive play caller.
A native of Tucson, Arizona, Dempsey's football track started in Santa Rita High School, where he played both linebacker and tight end. He continued his career at Valparaiso University, where he spent his first three seasons as a linebacker before transitioning to fullback in his final year. Dempsey earned his bachelor's degree in education from Valparaiso.
Throughout his collegiate coaching career, Dempsey has demonstrated a strong track record of developing elite defensive talent. He has coached 15 All-PSAC selections and played key roles in the development of Jake Holl, a Division II Don Hansen All-American Honorable Mention and a D2 Football.com Top 100 player, who led his conference in tackles during the 2022 season.
"I'd like to thank Coach Hickman for the opportunity to be a part of the WNMU football family," Dempsey said. "I'm excited to join a program with great potential and a passionate community, and I'm looking forward to contributing to the culture, development, and success of the team."
In his free time, Dempsey enjoys spending time with his family. He and his wife, Kerri, have a son, Braxton, with another son expected in July 2026. He also enjoys barbecuing and spending summers at the beach with his family.
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
