At 4:18 p.m. on Tuesday, January 12, Fort Thomas Independent Schools (FTIS) announced Eddie James, who had previously accepted the role of head coach for the Highlands High School football team, backed out of his commitment. 

     James decided that he would stay in Frankfort to coach his alma mater, the Franklin County High School (FCHS) Flyers. For him, the deciding factor was family — but not just the family under his roof. 

     “At the end of the day, it’s about the people for us. These kids have left an impression on my heart and my family, and our work here is not done,” James said about the athletes at FCHS and why he decided to stay when interviewed by the State Journal. 

     The Bluebirds will continue their search for a coach to lead them in the coming years. 

     In a statement released by FTIS, Highlands High School Principal Matthew Bertasso said, “We want somebody who wants to be at Highlands and build on our pedigree of excellence here, and our search for the next football coach will resume immediately. We will find the right person to restore our championship tradition.”