The Fort Thomas Apaches are coming off a 2-6 season that had their share of growing pains. But in Year 2 under head coach Evan Stringfellow, there is a quiet confidence that this team is starting to turn a corner.
“There’s a lot of room for growth and success,” Stringfellow said. “We’re looking forward to a positive season.”
The Apaches compete in the 1A South, where the game moves fast, players often go both ways, and teams must maximize every ounce of talent. Last fall, Fort Thomas showed flashes of promise but struggled to put together four full quarters. Now, with a more seasoned group and a wave of underclassmen ready to contribute, Stringfellow is hoping to build something more durable.
Senior wide receiver Michael Olivar returns as one of the top playmakers in the region after racking up 794 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns in 2024. He averaged nearly 90 receiving yards per game and added over 170 rushing yards, proving he can be dangerous anywhere on the field. Treason Mull will play a key role in helping anchor the defense at linebacker. Mull is a physical, high-motor player who logged valuable minutes on both sides of the ball last season and gives Fort Thomas a tough edge in the trenches.
Fellow returner Seth Londeree added 373 total yards in 2024 and is expected to be a steady presence again in the ground game and passing attack. Senior Kobe Pearson brings similar two-way value, with 324 receiving yards, three touchdowns, and a strong presence at linebacker that helps set the tone defensively.
The biggest question mark heading into the fall is under center. Fort Thomas graduated quarterback Allen Gilbert, who threw for 1,666 yards and sixteen touchdowns last year. As of preseason, Stringfellow has not named a new starter at quarterback — and with a large freshman class and open competition, the job may still be up for grabs.
Wilbur Benally and Sky Lorenzo join the varsity ranks as assistants, working alongside returning coordinators Bracken Walker (offense), Zack Walker (defense), and Dametri Benally (special teams). The group has focused on improving fundamentals and sharpening execution on both sides of the ball.
The Apaches open the season at home on Aug. 22 against Baboquivari, followed by a region game at Duncan on Aug. 29. The full slate includes trips to Joseph City, Superior, and Valley Union, with home games against Salome, Ray, and St. David rounding out the eight-game schedule. Each matchup carries weight in a competitive 1A South race, and Fort Thomas is focused on taking one step forward each week.
“Like last year, every game is important to our program,” Stringfellow said. “Get ready for an exciting football season — the Apaches are fired up and ready.”
