De La Salle Football Warren: Program Insights & Stats

By Sarah Miller · July 31, 2049

De La Salle High School football in Warren, Michigan, is a powerhouse program known for its sustained excellence, competitive schedule, and elite player development. While often confused with the nationally renowned De La Salle from Concord, California, the Warren, MI, program has built a strong regional legacy within MHSAA Division 1 football.

Understanding De La Salle Football in Warren, MI

De La Salle Collegiate High School, located in Warren, Michigan, fields one of the most respected high school football programs in Metro Detroit. Competing in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 1, the Pilots have consistently ranked among the top teams in the state, particularly during the late 2010s and early 2020s.

Program Overview

School: De La Salle Collegiate High School
Location: Warren, Michigan
Team Name: Pilots
Conference: Catholic High School League (CHSL), aligned with MHSAA
Classification: MHSAA Division 1
Home Stadium: Dondero Field at De La Salle Campus

Recent Performance and Achievements

The De La Salle football team has been a consistent playoff contender in Michigan’s highest classification. Under head coach Dan MacLean, the program reached new heights, including multiple district championships and deep postseason runs.

Key Season Highlights

2021: Advanced to MHSAA Division 1 Regional Finals
2022: Finished with a 9–2 record, ranked in Top 10 polls
2023: Won CHSL 'A' Division title, qualified for state playoffs
2024: Early-season Top 5 ranking in Division 1

Year	Record (W-L)	MHSAA Playoff Result	Final State Rank (AP)	Head Coach
2020	6–3	District Semifinalist	NR	Dan MacLean
2021	10–2	Regional Finalist	#6	Dan MacLean
2022	9–2	Quarterfinalist	#8	Dan MacLean
2023	8–3	District Champion	#10	Dan MacLean
2024 (Projected)	7–1 (early season)	Playoffs Ongoing	Top 5	Dan MacLean

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows a clear trend of sustained competitiveness, with De La Salle maintaining a winning record over the past five seasons and achieving deeper playoff success in recent years. The program's consistency places it among the elite in Southeast Michigan.

Player Development and College Recruitment

De La Salle Warren has become a pipeline for collegiate athletes, with numerous players earning scholarships to NCAA programs, including FBS and FCS schools.

Notable Alumni and Recruits

Anthony Solomon – Defensive back, signed with Central Michigan University (2022)
Isaiah Marshall – Linebacker, committed to Eastern Michigan (2023)
Tyler Johnson – Quarterback, recruited by Western Michigan (2024)
Multiple players annually earn All-State and All-Region honors

Coaching and Program Philosophy

Head coach Dan MacLean emphasizes discipline, academic excellence, and character development alongside athletic performance. The coaching staff focuses on a balanced offensive attack and an aggressive, disciplined defense.

Core Principles

Academic eligibility as a non-negotiable standard
Position-specific skill development year-round
Strength and conditioning integrated into curriculum
Leadership training for senior players

Frequently Asked Questions About De La Salle Football Warren

What is the difference between De La Salle Warren and De La Salle Concord?

De La Salle Warren refers to De La Salle Collegiate High School in Warren, Michigan, while De La Salle Concord is located in California and holds a national championship legacy. Though both are Catholic schools with strong football traditions, they are separate programs with no affiliation.

Where does De La Salle Warren play football?

The Pilots play their home games at Dondero Field, located on the school campus in Warren, Michigan. The stadium features artificial turf, lights for night games, and seating for approximately 2,500 fans.

What conference does De La Salle Warren football compete in?

De La Salle competes in the Catholic High School League (CHSL) 'A' Division and participates in the MHSAA Division 1 state tournament. The CHSL includes other prominent private and parochial schools across Metro Detroit.

Who is the head coach of De La Salle Warren football?

As of 2025, Dan MacLean is the head football coach. He has led the program since the late 2010s and is credited with elevating the team’s competitiveness and national visibility.

How can I watch De La Salle Warren football games?

Games are streamed live on NFHS Network and occasionally broadcast on local media outlets like Hometown Life and FOX Sports Detroit. Schedules and streaming links are available on the official school athletics website.

In summary, De La Salle football in Warren, Michigan, stands as a premier high school football program with a proven track record of success on the field, strong player development, and a commitment to academic and personal growth. Its growing reputation continues to attract talent and attention across the Midwest.