Thatcher, Ariz. – With the high school football season on the horizon, Thatcher High School’s Eagles are gearing up for a potentially historic year under the leadership of coach Daniel Jones. Entering his fifth year at Thatcher with over two decades of coaching experience, Jones is determined to guide his team to a state title.
Last season, the Eagles finished with a 7-5 record, highlighted by a playoff victory over Florence and a stunning win against Sabino, the eventual state champions, on their home field. Building on these achievements, Thatcher aims to go further this season with the ambitious goal of clinching the state title. Early preseason polls reflect high expectations for the Eagles, placing them in the top three in the state behind Mohave and Valley Christian.
Thatcher returns several key players who will be instrumental to their success, including Brett Jones (TE, formerly QB, MLB), Kody Bingham (RB, DB), Brigham Rasmussen (OL, DL), Crew Farris (WR, DB), and Wyatt Nicholas (WR, DB). Emerging talents such as Will Chidester (SR, RB, DE), Ryan Jones (JR, WR, OLB), Landen Robbins (JR, OL, DL), and Patrick Nicholas (SR, TE, DE) are also expected to make significant contributions. With Jones moving to tight end, the quarterback position remains an open battle in camp between multiple players.
Offensively, Thatcher boasts depth at running back and a robust offensive line, bolstered by an experienced senior class. However, the team struggled to score in the red zone last season, an area they are keen to improve. Defensively, the team is noted for its speed and size, with Brigham Rasmussen and Brett Jones anchoring what could be one of the strongest defenses in recent school history. The special teams unit also looks promising, with a wealth of athletic talent ready to step up.
The Eagles’ coaching staff remains stable this season, featuring Russ Jones (offensive coordinator), Dan Jones (defensive coordinator), Danny Battraw (offensive line), Jacob Robbins (defensive line), Billy Farris (running backs), Michael Romney (linebackers), Brett Hunt (defensive backs), Kody Taylor (JV head coach and assistant offensive coordinator), and Ethan Estes (JV defensive coordinator).
Facing one of the toughest schedules in 3A, Thatcher will be tested every week. Key games against Valley Christian and Yuma Catholic will be critical indicators of the team’s potential. Intense rivalry matchups against defending champions Sabino and Safford are also highly anticipated and could shape the Eagles’ season.
Coach Jones embraces the motto “Invictus” – be undefeatable – and believes that the toughest team will win. He emphasizes the importance of upholding Thatcher football’s special tradition, urging his players to “defend the T and take your turn in making it special.” Reflecting on last season’s highlights, including the playoff victory over Florence and the win against Sabino, Jones sets high expectations for his team. The goals are clear: fight for the region title, make a run for the state title, and embody the “Thatcher Tough” spirit.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising new talent, Thatcher High School’s Eagles are poised for a standout season. As Coach Jones succinctly puts it, “Just win, baby!”
