Oklahoma Apex Establishes National Post-Graduate Athletic Headquarters at Historic Saint Gregory’s University Campus
Admin User
March 12, 2026
Shawnee, Oklahoma / CRWE Press Release / March 13, 2026 — Oklahoma Apex has officially established its national home at the former Saint Gregory’s University campus, positioning the historic property as the headquarters of Oklahoma Apex Athletics and Academics Post-Graduate Preparatory School beginning with the 2026 academic year. The initiative positions Oklahoma Apex as one of the few nationally structured post-graduate athletic development programs operating on a full collegiate campus environment.
Originally founded in 1875 by Benedictine monks, Saint Gregory’s built a legacy rooted in faith, academic rigor, and athletic excellence for more than a century. Saint Gregory’s maintained successful athletic and academic programs throughout its history across numerous levels of collegiate competition and was widely respected for its tradition of student-athlete development. The campus remains anchored by historic Benedictine Hall and the active Benedictine monastery, preserving the spiritual and educational foundation that shaped generations of students and student-athletes. Oklahoma Apex now builds upon that legacy with a bold national vision.
Oklahoma Apex Football competes within the NJCP (National Junior College Preparatory) Football League, a structured national platform consisting of 18 teams across 13 states. Under the leadership of Shawn Jones, NJCP Football provides competitive scheduling, verified exposure opportunities, and a national recruiting network designed to mirror collegiate-level operations. This established league foundation gives Oklahoma Apex athletes multi-state visibility and legitimate advancement pathways.
Leveraging the strength and stability of NJCP Football, Oklahoma Apex is expanding its developmental model into basketball and baseball while actively planning for the addition of further sports programs in the coming years. The organization’s long-term vision is to create a comprehensive, multi-sport preparatory system that opens doors for young men seeking continued academic and athletic progression.
The former Saint Gregory’s campus provides a comprehensive environment to support this national mode, including residential dormitory housing, athletic training facilities, academic spaces, student union gathering areas, and competition venues. The internationally recognized Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art and campus performing arts theater will be integrated into student development programming, promoting cultural awareness, leadership education, unity, and community-based events.
Oklahoma Apex is not simply operating on historic grounds, it is building a long-term foundation for growth. Under the leadership of Mark Timberlake, President and Director of Operations, the organization is committed to honoring the history of Saint Gregory’s athletic programs and academic accomplishments while establishing a nationally recognized preparatory institution rooted in discipline, faith, and opportunity.
Beyond athletics, Oklahoma Apex emphasizes a spiritually grounded development model centered on servant leadership and community engagement. The program is committed to community-based commitments on multiple levels, including youth mentorship initiatives, service outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, and educational enrichment events. Athletes will be taught not only to compete, but to lead, serve, and uplift their community while developing humility and character.
“Oklahoma Apex represents the next evolution of post-graduate athletic preparation,” said Timberlake. “We are building more than teams, we are building opportunity. Through national league structure, expanded sport offerings, academic progression, faith-based leadership, and deep community involvement, we are creating a sustainable platform for young men to advance at every level.”
Beginning Fall 2026, football will anchor initial operations, with basketball and baseball programs operating across both Fall and Spring semesters. As the program grows, Oklahoma Apex intends to incorporate additional sports opportunities, increasing access for student-athletes nationwide while reinforcing its commitment to community service, education, and character development.
The project is also expected to bring student-athletes, staff, and visiting teams to Shawnee throughout the academic year, creating new opportunities for community engagement and local economic activity.
The establishment of Oklahoma Apex at the former Saint Gregory’s University campus marks a powerful new chapter, one that blends historic tradition with modern national athletic infrastructure and a long-term commitment to serving young men and the broader community.
Further announcements regarding enrollment, expanded sport offerings, and national partnerships will follow in the coming months.
Media Contact
Mark Timberlake
President & Director of Operations
Oklahoma Apex Athletics and Academics
580-977-6452 coachtlake@gmail.com
About Oklahoma Apex
Oklahoma Apex Athletics and Academics is a national post-graduate preparatory program dedicated to providing student-athletes with opportunities for continued academic growth, athletic development, and leadership training. Based in Shawnee, Oklahoma, the program operates within a structured national competitive environment while emphasizing education, character development, faith-based leadership, and community engagement. Oklahoma Apex is committed to creating pathways for student-athletes seeking advancement to collegiate opportunities while developing discipline, service, and long-term success.
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 overlooked football talent across the United States. Built by former NFL athletes and veteran coaches, the NJCP provides a professionalized platform for player development, media exposure, and community impact for athletes across the nation. For more information, please visit www.njcpfootball.com.
Media Contact:
National Junior College Prep Football League
(435) 922 3335