13U Coaches
Head Coach
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Big things are happening for Marana Thunder! We are in the final stages of selecting our next Head Coach, someone who will bring leadership, passion, and a Champion Mindset to our program.
We’re committed to finding the right person to lead our athletes to success on and off the field. Stay tuned—an official announcement is coming soon!
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Assistant Coach
Hello, my name is Tomas Chavez. I am a flight surgeon in the USAF Reserves with 33
years of service. This is my first year with Marana Thunder and I’m excited to coach our
13U football team. I hope to help them develop not only as good football players on the
field, but also as good young men and leaders off the field.
12U-Blue Coaches - 2025
Head Coach Phillip Britt
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Coach Phillip Britt has been with the Marana Thunder program for four years, serving three seasons as Defensive Coordinator before being named Head Coach in 2023. Under his leadership, the team has captured four City Championship titles and earned a Regional Championship with a Nationals appearance. A former Division I dual-sport athlete
Coach Phillip Britt has been with the Marana Thunder program for four years, serving three seasons as Defensive Coordinator before being named Head Coach in 2023. Under his leadership, the team has captured four City Championship titles and earned a Regional Championship with a Nationals appearance. A former Division I dual-sport athlete at Southern Utah University in both Track & Field and Football, Coach Britt brings elite-level experience, discipline, and passion to the program. His leadership continues to drive a strong, competitive culture within Marana Thunder.
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Coach Aaron Uhe has been with the Marana Thunder coaching staff for four years, serving three seasons as Offensive Coordinator before being named Associate Head Coach in 2023. During his time with the program, he has helped lead the team to four City Championship titles, a Regional Championship, and a Nationals appearance. Known for his s
Coach Aaron Uhe has been with the Marana Thunder coaching staff for four years, serving three seasons as Offensive Coordinator before being named Associate Head Coach in 2023. During his time with the program, he has helped lead the team to four City Championship titles, a Regional Championship, and a Nationals appearance. Known for his sharp offensive mind and ability to connect with players, Coach Aaron plays a vital role in the team’s ongoing success and development. His leadership and commitment continue to elevate the standard for Marana Thunder football.
Assistant Coach Dennis Yauch
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Assistant Coach Dermain Linen
Coach Dennis Yauch has been with Marana Thunder for three years, serving as a key defensive assistant with a focus on developing the secondary. A Tucson native, Dennis attended college in Las Vegas, where he became a hotshot firefighter before returning home to raise his family. He now serves as an Engineer for the Golder Ranch Fire Depar
Coach Dennis Yauch has been with Marana Thunder for three years, serving as a key defensive assistant with a focus on developing the secondary. A Tucson native, Dennis attended college in Las Vegas, where he became a hotshot firefighter before returning home to raise his family. He now serves as an Engineer for the Golder Ranch Fire Department. Over his time with the program, he has helped the team secure four City Championship titles, a Regional Championship, and a Nationals appearance. Off the field, Coach Dennis lives for adventure—racing in the dunes, surfing, or running ultra marathons. He’s passionate about mentoring young athletes and shaping tomorrow’s leaders through sports.
Assistant Coach Dermain Linen
Associate Head Coach Aaron Uhe
Assistant Coach Dermain Linen
This is Coach Dermain Linen's 3rd year with Marana Thunder. His coaching experience spans 15+ years at various youth programs and at the Varsity level with Marana High School.
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
This is Coach Desi Rodriguez's second year with Marana Thunder. He is the offensive lineman coach.
Film Analyst / Coach Assistant
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
I'm coach Justin Medlin, it’s my second year with Marana Thunder and very thrilled to be part of the team again . I've been coaching youth sports for the past 7 years. I Grew up playing football in Globe, Az and have been a resident in Marana since 2010.
Coach Assistant
Assistant Coach Desi Rodriguez
Coach Assistant
I'm coach Emery Goodin, it’s my first year with Marana Thunder and very excited help the team achieve it's fullest potential. I am Tucson Native and played football and Mountain View.
11U Coaches - 2025
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Hi, I’m Rick Sepulveda, and I’m honored to be the Head Coach of the 11U Marana Thunder team. This is my third season coaching with Thunder, and for me, football is about far more than just wins and losses, it’s about building discipline, confidence, and character in every player that steps on the field.
As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I bring
Hi, I’m Rick Sepulveda, and I’m honored to be the Head Coach of the 11U Marana Thunder team. This is my third season coaching with Thunder, and for me, football is about far more than just wins and losses, it’s about building discipline, confidence, and character in every player that steps on the field.
As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I bring structure and accountability to everything I do, and that carries over into my coaching style. I believe in teaching the fundamentals, focusing on effort, and building a strong team culture rooted in respect and hard work. I want our players to leave every practice not just better at football but better prepared for life.
My son plays in the program, and coaching here gives me the chance to give back to the community and invest in the next generation of leaders. I’m proud to be part of the Thunder family and excited to see what our team will achieve this season, on and off the field.
Asst. Coach Marc Aragon
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Hey there, I'm Marc Aragon, and I'm thrilled to be coaching the 11U division this year! I've got three years of coaching experience with 3rd-5th grade flag football, and I played tackle football for a solid 12 years at various levels. It's not just about the game for me; it's about nurturing young athletes and fostering a sense of teamwor
Hey there, I'm Marc Aragon, and I'm thrilled to be coaching the 11U division this year! I've got three years of coaching experience with 3rd-5th grade flag football, and I played tackle football for a solid 12 years at various levels. It's not just about the game for me; it's about nurturing young athletes and fostering a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. Oh, and did I mention my son will be playing on the team too? So, you can bet I'm doubly invested in making sure we have a great season both on and off the field. Let's do this!
Asst. Coach Lamar Coulter
Head Coach Rick Sepulveda
Asst. Coach Lamar Coulter
Hi, I’m Coach Colter! I was born and raised in Tucson and graduated from Mountain View High School. Football has always been a passion of mine, and I love teaching the game to young athletes in our community.
For me, coaching is about more than just playing the game, it’s about teaching the fundamentals, understanding the rules, and most i
Hi, I’m Coach Colter! I was born and raised in Tucson and graduated from Mountain View High School. Football has always been a passion of mine, and I love teaching the game to young athletes in our community.
For me, coaching is about more than just playing the game, it’s about teaching the fundamentals, understanding the rules, and most importantly, ensuring player safety. I believe sports not only keep kids active and healthy but also teach valuable life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
I’m excited to be part of Thunder 11U Football and look forward to helping our players grow both on and off the field!
10U Coaches - 2025
Head Coach Carl Weller
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
My name is Carl Weller. I was born and raised in Tucson, AZ. Growing up, I
played several different sports, including football, baseball, and soccer. I have 2 children and
one of which will be playing for the Thunder for his second year this season. I have been an
assistant baseball coach for several seasons in Marana Little League and head
My name is Carl Weller. I was born and raised in Tucson, AZ. Growing up, I
played several different sports, including football, baseball, and soccer. I have 2 children and
one of which will be playing for the Thunder for his second year this season. I have been an
assistant baseball coach for several seasons in Marana Little League and head coach for the 9U
Thunder last year. I serve on the board to help the youth community and
provide safe and fun space for them to then to learn the game of football.
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
My name is Malcolm Sams I have coached from the little league up thru the High School levels. I'm committed to enriching young minds and talent.My family and myself are Government transfers, so we are proud to call Marana our last home. We have been part of Marana leagues for three years now.I played football from little league up to t
My name is Malcolm Sams I have coached from the little league up thru the High School levels. I'm committed to enriching young minds and talent.My family and myself are Government transfers, so we are proud to call Marana our last home. We have been part of Marana leagues for three years now.I played football from little league up to the Collegiate level, I was in Track/Field from Middle School thru the Collegiate level as well.
Assistant Coach Wes Henson
Assistant Coach Malcolm Sams
Assistant Coach Wes Henson
My name is Wes Henson. This is my second season with the Marana Thunder. I grew up playing football, wrestling, and tennis. I have been coaching youth sports teams to include baseball, softball and tennis since 2008.
9U Coaches -2025
Head Coach Leo Dotson
Head Coach Leo Dotson
Head Coach Leo Dotson
Hello all. My name is Leo Dotson and I am excited to be a part of the Thunder family for another
year. I have been coaching youth football for the past 4 years either at the flag level as head
coach or an assistant in tackle. I strive to always encourage our players to be the best of
themselves and look forward to their growth and development.
Assistant Coach
Head Coach Leo Dotson
Head Coach Leo Dotson
The Marana Thunder are finalizing the addition of a key Assistant Coach to our staff! We’re bringing in someone who embodies leadership, passion, and a Champion Mindset—the perfect fit to help develop our athletes and elevate our program.
Stay tuned for the official announcement—big things ahead for Thunder football!
8U Coaches -2025
Head Coach Stephen Mullineaux
Head Coach Stephen Mullineaux
Head Coach Stephen Mullineaux
Stephen Mullineaux
Born in Colorado and moved to Mammoth, Arizona around 8 years of age. I currently reside in a small town, Oracle, Arizona with my wife and four sons. I graduated from San Manuel High School in 2000 and immediately went to work. I work at Freeport McMoRan. I am a diehard Denver Bronco football fan and enjoy watching spo
Stephen Mullineaux
Born in Colorado and moved to Mammoth, Arizona around 8 years of age. I currently reside in a small town, Oracle, Arizona with my wife and four sons. I graduated from San Manuel High School in 2000 and immediately went to work. I work at Freeport McMoRan. I am a diehard Denver Bronco football fan and enjoy watching sports.
I’ve always had a passion for all sports while growing up. Growing up, I played just about every sport I could—football, wrestling, baseball and basketball. I believe in working hard, being disciplined, and having dedication.
My coaching journey began when my oldest son was old enough to play t-ball for Little League 7 years ago. I now coach my eldest middle son in community schools sports- soccer, flag football, basketball and wrestling. I coach both my older two sons in Minors Little League. Coaching my kids and other kids has taught me to have patience, be encouraging, and the importance of building strong fundamentals.
I’m excited to bring my football knowledge, experience and energy to the field to help the kids learn fundamentals and a love for the sport. My goal is to teach the kids to have dedication, commitment, teamwork and most importantly to love the sport.
Assistant Coach Sean Ortega
Head Coach Stephen Mullineaux
Head Coach Stephen Mullineaux
Born and raised in the small town of Clifton, Arizona, I’ve always had a passion for sports and competition. Growing up, I played just about every sport I could—from football and wrestling to baseball and tennis. I’m a proud Morenci Wildcat, who has always believed in the power of hard work, discipline, and dedication.
My coaching journey
Born and raised in the small town of Clifton, Arizona, I’ve always had a passion for sports and competition. Growing up, I played just about every sport I could—from football and wrestling to baseball and tennis. I’m a proud Morenci Wildcat, who has always believed in the power of hard work, discipline, and dedication.
My coaching journey began with junior high wrestling, where I spent 2 years mentoring young athletes on and off the mat. I’ve also had the rewarding experience of coaching my daughter’s baseball teams, which taught me the importance of patience, encouragement, and building strong fundamentals.
Now, I’m excited to bring my football experience and energy to the field, helping to develop not only strong athletes but strong character in your boys. My goal is to teach the heart of football—commitment, grit, teamwork, and pride in every play.
Flag Coaches -2025
Head Coach Travis Gebelle
Assistant Coach Jimmy Gerrettie
Assistant Coach Jimmy Gerrettie
Hello, I am Coach Travis. I have coached flag football for three seasons and have assisted coaching at Tortolita Middle School. This is my first season with The Marana Thunder and am extremely excited to coach and help these young kids.
Assistant Coach Jimmy Gerrettie
Assistant Coach Jimmy Gerrettie
Assistant Coach Jimmy Gerrettie
Hello, I am Coach Jimmy. I have coached flag football for five seasons and have been an assistant coach at Marana Middle School. This is my first season with Marana Thunder. I can't wait to help this team grow and play to the best of their abilities.
Cheer Coaches - 2025
Cheer Commissioner
Assistant Coach 12U
Cheer Commissioner
Callie Baker is originally from small town Texas, but grew up right here in the Tucson area. Her and her husband, Ron, have three children, Otto, RJ and Sammi. RJ plays football for the Thunder and Sammi is one of our cheerleaders. Callie has worked in early childhood education for more than 20 year, the last 10 being in Preschool adminis
Callie Baker is originally from small town Texas, but grew up right here in the Tucson area. Her and her husband, Ron, have three children, Otto, RJ and Sammi. RJ plays football for the Thunder and Sammi is one of our cheerleaders. Callie has worked in early childhood education for more than 20 year, the last 10 being in Preschool administration. 2025 is Callie's second year on the Thunder executive board.
Head Coach 12U
Assistant Coach 12U
Cheer Commissioner
Hi, I’m Amy!
I will be a 12U cheer coach this season, I come with a splash of soccer and track coaching experience under my belt, and I love rallying teams to shine. As a past Girl Scout leader, I’m all about teamwork, confidence, and a little bit of glitter. I’m super excited for the upcoming season—bring on the cheers! When I’m not on t
Hi, I’m Amy!
I will be a 12U cheer coach this season, I come with a splash of soccer and track coaching experience under my belt, and I love rallying teams to shine. As a past Girl Scout leader, I’m all about teamwork, confidence, and a little bit of glitter. I’m super excited for the upcoming season—bring on the cheers! When I’m not on the mat, you’ll find me planning my next adventure or curled up with a good book.
Assistant Coach 12U
Assistant Coach 12U
Assistant Coach 12U
Ariana Eggers
Cheerleading has been a huge part of my life since I started at age six. From those early days to cheering through high school, I've loved every minute. The teamwork, the spirit, the adrenaline – it's all unforgettable.
I am exited to help coach Marana Thunder Cheer and can’t wait to see what this season holds!
Head Coach 10U
Assistant Coach 12U
Assistant Coach 12U
Danielle Stevens
Hi! I am a mom of 4, my only daughter is my 9 year old cheerleader. This is our second year with Thunder. We had a such a great experience last year.
I am a Fitness instructor, I love teaching zumba and other forms of fitness, too! I was a cheerleader when I was young and never lost my love of choreographed dance.
I am exc
Danielle Stevens
Hi! I am a mom of 4, my only daughter is my 9 year old cheerleader. This is our second year with Thunder. We had a such a great experience last year.
I am a Fitness instructor, I love teaching zumba and other forms of fitness, too! I was a cheerleader when I was young and never lost my love of choreographed dance.
I am excited to be the head coach for our 10u team this year, alongside my friends and co-coaches. We are going to have a great year!
Assistant Coach 10U
Assistant Coach 10U
Assistant Coach 10U
Jaden Avenenti
Jaden Avenenti was born and raised in Tucson Arizona, being an active meaden Avenenti was born and raised in Tucson Arizona, being an active member of the Marana community for many years through student council, cheerleading, and dance. She graduated from Marana High School and is currently a Nursing student at Pima Commun
Jaden Avenenti
Jaden Avenenti was born and raised in Tucson Arizona, being an active meaden Avenenti was born and raised in Tucson Arizona, being an active member of the Marana community for many years through student council, cheerleading, and dance. She graduated from Marana High School and is currently a Nursing student at Pima Community College and works as a patient care tech. This is her second year coaching with Thunder and can’t wait to see what we can accomplish! She has 15 years of cheerleading and dance experience. Starting as a youth cheerleader herself and moving to competitive and highschool cheer, as well as a year on the #2 nationally ranked Marana dance team. She is extremely excited to share her love and passion for the sport with the Thunder family.mber of the Marana community for many years through student council, cheerleading, and dance. She graduated from Marana High School and is currently a Pre-Nursing student at Pima Community College and works as a patient care tech. This is her first year coaching with the Thunder family. She has 15 years of cheerleading and dance experience. Starting as a youth cheerleader herself and moving to competitive and highschool cheer, as well as a year on the #2 nationally ranked Marana dance team. She is extremely excited to share her love and passion for the sport with the Thunder family.
Assistant Coach 10U
Assistant Coach 10U
Assistant Coach 10U
Melinda Dávila
Coach Melinda is thrilled to be coaching her daughter’s team this season and to be part of the Marana Thunder family! With a strong background in both cheer and child development, she brings a unique blend of experience, energy, and heart to the mat.
Melinda was a competitive cheerleader in high school and later helped coac
Melinda Dávila
Coach Melinda is thrilled to be coaching her daughter’s team this season and to be part of the Marana Thunder family! With a strong background in both cheer and child development, she brings a unique blend of experience, energy, and heart to the mat.
Melinda was a competitive cheerleader in high school and later helped coach a freshman team while in college. She also volunteered as a beginner tumbling coach and worked in childcare centers throughout her college years. In addition to her cheer experience, she taught violin to elementary students—further strengthening her passion for teaching and mentoring young learners.
She is the proud mom of two daughters: her youngest is on the 10U team, and her oldest competes in all-star cheer. Melinda has been married for 12 years and works full-time in higher education, where she continues to support student success and program development.
She’s passionate about creating a fun, inclusive, and encouraging environment where young athletes can build confidence, grow as teammates, and develop a lifelong love for cheer.
Let’s go, Thunder!
Head Coach 8U
Assistant Coach 10U
Head Coach 8U
Makayley Halstead
Hey Cheer Fam! I’m Makayley, new head coach of the 8U cheer team! I am 28 years old and a mother to 3 girls and the sweetest little 8 month old boy. I was a cheer leader for 4 years in high school and I can’t wait to share the joy of this sport with my team!
Let’s have a great season!