Valle Catholic High School is proud to announce Mark Benson as the Grand Marshal of Valle Catholic’s 2026 Homecoming Parade.
Mark served as the head football coach at Valle from 1978-1983, leading the team to back-to-back Class 2 State Championships in 1981 and 1982. He was also named Class 2 Missouri State Football Coach of the Year in both 1981 and 1982.
Mark’s impact went far beyond the scoreboard. During his time at Valle, he started the school’s first year-round weightlifting and conditioning program, brought new energy to pep rallies, and started the first pep buses to away games–helping build school spirit and a stronger sense of community.
Most importantly, Mark genuinely cared about his players. He believed in them, supported them, and cared about who they became–not just how many games they won.
Today, Mark and his wife, Debbie, reside in Festus. They are proud parents of four daughters and grandparents to eight grandchildren.
Mark is also the founder and president of Control Option Company and Ameritime, Inc.