New City. New Opportunity. Louisville Thunder Debuts with Standout Tryout
Admin User
April 16, 2026
Louisville, Kentucky / CRWE Press Release / April 14, 2026 — On April 11, the Louisville Thunder, a member of the National Junior College Prep (NJCP) Football League, hosted a successful tryout at New Walnut Street Park in Louisville, Kentucky. A strong turnout of athletes pursuing their next-level opportunity was in attendance, and each participant came ready to compete. The event brought together more than 100 players, coaches, and parents, all united by the common goal of supporting athletes as they take the next step in their football journeys. Historically, Louisville has not had a junior college football program; NJCP and the Louisville Thunder are now providing opportunities the city has not previously seen. As news of the tryout continues to spread, interest and excitement around the program continue to grow.
To help make the event possible, the Thunder worked with Louisville Metro Parks and Recreation to secure the field and also presented information on NJCP and the Thunder program to Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), the largest school district in the state of Kentucky. JCPS currently serves approximately 97,000 students across Jefferson County. Through these efforts, the Thunder were able to share information about the program and build strong relationships with schools and leaders throughout the district. With this support, the organization was able to maximize outreach to players and further promote the opportunities NJCP provides. Since the tryout, the Thunder has seen continued growth in player interest and inquiries about joining the program.
The success of the tryout was also strengthened by the preparation and experience of the Thunder coaching staff. Head Coach Mike Reed and Associate Head Coach Chris Wolfe developed a strong tryout format that allowed athletes to showcase their abilities while giving coaches a clear opportunity to evaluate talent. General Manager Jeremy Brown worked closely with the staff to ensure that operational details, including equipment and event logistics, were secured and managed beginning in February. Collectively, the staff delivered professional coaching and created multiple teachable moments throughout the tryout environment. The coaching staff remains aligned in its mission of providing athletes with the tools, support, and preparation needed to succeed at the next level. The next Louisville-based Thunder tryout will take place on June 13 at New Walnut Street Park.
About Louisville Thunder:
The Louisville Thunder is a member team of the National Junior College Prep (NJCP) Football League based in Louisville, Kentucky, providing athletes with a structured pathway to continue competing, developing, and gaining national exposure after high school.
About NJCP Football League:
The National Junior College Prep Football League is the first national system for junior college prep football, designed to organize, showcase, and develop football talent across the United States.
For more information, please visit www.njcpfootball.com.
Media Contact:
National Junior College Prep Football League
Email: admin@njcpfootball.com
Phone: (435) 922 3335