Kentucky State University Football

Kentucky State University, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, has a rich athletic history, with its football program being one of the most notable. The Kentucky State Thorobreds, as they are affectionately known, compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II and are members of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). With a strong commitment to academic excellence and athletic prowess, the university's football team has garnered a significant following and achieved considerable success over the years.

History of Kentucky State University Football

The Kentucky State University football program has a long and storied history, dating back to 1920. The team has undergone several transformations, including changes in conference affiliations and coaching staff, but has consistently maintained a strong presence in the world of collegiate athletics. The Thorobreds have won several conference championships, including the SIAC championship in 2002, and have appeared in numerous playoff games. The team’s home stadium, Alumni Stadium, has been their home since 1970 and has a seating capacity of over 7,000.

Notable Coaches and Players

Throughout its history, the Kentucky State University football program has been led by several notable coaches, including William Exum, who coached the team from 1970 to 1974 and led the Thorobreds to their first SIAC championship. Other notable coaches include Donald Smith and George Small, who have both made significant contributions to the program’s success. The team has also produced several talented players, including quarterback Corey Smith, who set multiple school records for passing yards and touchdowns during his time with the Thorobreds.

Current State of the Program

The Kentucky State University football program is currently led by head coach Charles “Chuck” Lotharp, who has been at the helm since 2019. Under Coach Lotharp’s leadership, the team has shown significant improvement, with a winning record in the 2020 season. The team’s roster includes a talented mix of experienced players and newcomers, with a strong emphasis on developing the skills and abilities of each student-athlete. The Thorobreds’ schedule includes matchups against conference rivals such as Albany State University and Fort Valley State University, as well as non-conference games against teams like Morehouse College.

Academic Performance

The Kentucky State University football program places a strong emphasis on academic performance, with a focus on ensuring that student-athletes are successful in the classroom as well as on the field. The team’s academic support services include tutoring, mentoring, and academic advising, all designed to help student-athletes achieve their academic goals. The team’s graduation rate is consistently high, with many players going on to pursue successful careers in fields such as education, business, and healthcare.

In addition to its on-field success, the Kentucky State University football program is also committed to giving back to the community. The team participates in various outreach and service projects throughout the year, including food drives, health fairs, and youth football clinics. These efforts not only benefit the community but also help to develop the character and leadership skills of the student-athletes.