Destin High School is mourning the loss of Assistant Football Coach Eric Divens, a beloved staff member whose dedication to students and passion for the school left a lasting impact on the campus community.

• Divens, who often said he “was a Shark through and through and bled blue,” served as both an assistant coach and a dedicated staff member. He was known as a fundraiser for the school, sharing his passion for the institution’s mission.

“Coach Divens made a lasting impact on this campus,” said Dr. Diane Kelley, principal of Destin High School. “Whether coaching our athletes, cheering from the sidelines, or simply offering encouragement in the hallways, his presence was felt in every corner of our school. His dedication, his laughter, and his love for our students will never be forgotten.”

Head Football Coach E.G. Green expressed deep personal loss at Divens’ passing.

“Coach Divens was my brother, a best friend and trusted member of my staff, inner circle and my family,” Green said. “Our players loved Coach Divens and we will dedicate the next football season in his honor. He will be sorely missed.”

• The school community honored Divens at Thursday’s basketball game at Rocky Bayou Christian School, where the Destin Touchdown Club and the school’s Governing Board of Directors distributed black ribbons for fans to wear in his memory. 

In response to the loss, Destin High has made counseling services available for students and staff. The school community is being encouraged to lean on one another and seek support during this difficult time.

Information about memorial arrangements and opportunities to honor Divens will be shared with the community as it becomes available.