Firenze Red Lions sign Tom Mason as defensive coordinator

The Firenze Red Lions continue building their staff for the upcoming 2026 the American Football League Europe season. After announcing head coach Bart Andrus and offensive lineman Abraham Chacón, the Italian franchise has now confirmed its third signing. American coach Tom Mason will join the team as defensive coordinator for the Red Lions’ debut season.

Mason will be responsible for leading the defensive side of the team alongside head coach Bart Andrus as the franchise prepares for its first year in the league.

Nearly five decades of coaching experience

Tom Mason brings almost 50 years of coaching experience to the Red Lions. He began his coaching career in 1978 at Walla Walla Community College and later worked at several well-known college football programs in the United States.

Over the years, Mason coached at major colleges such as Boise State and Central Michigan, gaining valuable experience at a high level of the sport.

His career also includes professional football experience. Mason coached in NFL Europe with the Scottish Claymores, worked in the XFL with the Houston Roughnecks, and most recently served as defensive backs coach for the Frankfurt Galaxy in the European League of Football.

Reunion with head coach Bart Andrus

Tom Mason and Bart Andrus are already familiar with each other from their time with the Frankfurt Galaxy, where Andrus served as head coach while Mason worked on the defensive staff.

Now the two coaches reunite in Florence, bringing their shared experience and football knowledge to the Firenze Red Lions.

With Mason taking charge of the defense, the Red Lions continue to build an experienced coaching staff as they prepare for their first season in the American Football League Europe.