Louisville Thunder Appoints Veteran Coach Mike Reed to Lead Program

Louisville, Kentucky / CRWE PRESS RELEASE/ January 15, 2026 — The National Junior College Prep (NJCP) Football League officially announces the appointment of Mike Reed as Head Football Coach of the Louisville Thunder. This strategic move introduces the professional-grade coaching program to the Louisville territory, specifically designed for high school graduates, transfer portal athletes, and overlooked prospects seeking college football opportunities.

Coach Reed, a United States Air Force Veteran, brings over 25 years of leadership excellence with a coaching background spanning the FBS, FCS, and NAIA levels. His extensive experience includes tenures at Old Dominion University, Northern Arizona University, and Langston University, along with roles at high school powerhouses such as Trinity High School in Kentucky and Oceanside High School in California. As a proven program builder, Coach Reed will oversee all football operations and recruitment initiatives to establish a championship-caliber foundation in the region.

Coach Reed will work directly with the roster to implement the league’s holistic development model, which emphasizes character, responsibility, and civic engagement, while also training players in the advanced football techniques necessary for professional and collegiate advancement. This dual focus ensures that talented players continue their development in a supportive, high-stakes environment without losing sight of their academic and professional goals.

Off the turf, the Louisville Thunder football program is dedicated to establishing a lasting team presence across the Louisville territory through player-led outreach and local service initiatives. By fostering strong community ties and local partnerships, the organization aims to function as a unifying force for families and schools throughout the city. Coach Reed’s leadership is central to the league's mission of building exceptional citizens and leaders through the medium of football.

About NJCP Football League: The National Junior College Prep Football League is a nationwide developmental organization focused on preparing student-athletes for success on and off the field. NJCP provides structured opportunities for high school graduates, transfer portal athletes, and overlooked players to continue competing while receiving coaching, mentorship, and exposure to collegiate programs. The league emphasizes accountability, education, leadership, and community service as core pillars of athlete development. For more information, please visit www.njcpfootball.com.