Locker room talk: Thompson plans to continue history
By: Folasade Omogun
Issue date: 12/1/08 Section: Sports
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"I'm expecting to reach 1,000 yards by the sixth or seventh game next year," said Thompson, who is also the first player to reach more than 1,000 yards in the Southern Intercollegiate Athlete Conference (SIAC) since 2006. "I want to get that 2,000 yards."
In the locker room, where football cleats were placed against the wall and equipment in lockers, Thompson gasped in amazement at the neatness of the room. While Thompson looked around reflecting on the mental preparation that took place before games, his mind remained on, what he calls, "the prize."
"Next year, we are trying to get a ring on our finger," Thompson said, mentioning him and his teammate's aspirations of winning next year's SIAC championship title. "My sight is set higher, real higher next year. We're all trying to work hard and get that championship."
Before Thompson entered CAU in 2006, he had no recruiters knocking at his door to offer scholarships or a starting position on a team. But what Thompson did have was, "proof," of his ability to perform.
"I kept working, and kept pushing everyday in the weight room," Thompson said. "I got on the field and showed what I can do."
Thompson received a football scholarship the next year. Since then, Thompson has been a leading rusher in the SIAC. Thompson, who was named a member of the 2008 SIAC All-Conference Team, is recognized by the SIAC, as one of the top two running backs in the conference.
As Thompson prepares for next season, he always keeps in mind his aspirations of playing in the National Football League (NFL).
"[Once] I get that shot that's all I need. They will see what I can do," Thompson said. "One day I know I'll be a star in the NFL and join CJ (Curtis Johnson) somewhere."
Johnson, who led CAU's defense in 2007, is a member of the NFL's, Indianapolis Colts. As Johnson began his season as a professional, he inspired others, such as Thompson, to join him.
"He tells me every time to keep my head up and that I am good and I can make it (to the NFL)," Thompson said.
As Thompson prepares to continue the history,he knows it will take a lot of practice, studying (play books) and according to him, "praying and believing."
"Football is like a whole other three classes," Thompson said.
