Athlete Profile: Dylan Thomson

Panther senior off to strong start on ground

The Oconto Falls High School football team came into the fall season hoping to build on the success of last year’s campaign. With the help of senior Dylan Thomson, the Panthers are doing just that and are off to a 2-0 start.

Thomson battled an injury during the team’s season-opening win over Oconto on Aug. 20, but he still managed to rush for 61 yards on 10 attempts. He also contributed on defense, tallying four total tackles.

Thomson had a monster game to help the Panthers to a 34-22 win over Clintonville on Aug. 28. He carried the ball 19 times for 189 yards and three touchdowns. He finished with two total tackles.

The senior tied the game at 14 after breaking free for a 65-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter. He tied the game again in the third quarter on a 14-yard touchdown run and then also powered in on a two-point conversion run. He helped seal the win with a 1-yard rushing score in the fourth quarter.

As a junior, he made the Northwoods Conference second team as a defensive back and was an honorable mention pick as a running back.

Q: When did your interest in football begin?

A: When I first was able to walk, I was always carrying a football.

Q: What is your favorite part about the football season?

A: My favorite part is being with the team and seeing progression with myself and my teammates.

Q: In order to achieve its goals this season, what does your football team need to do?

A: We need to have great practices and have the mindset on game day that when we step on the field that we know we are the better team.

Q: Your senior season got started with a thrilling win over Oconto. Talk a bit about how that win helped energize the team and set the tone for the season.

A: The win against our rivals gave us confidence we needed that will help carry us through the season. We have a lot of talent on our team, and we’re coming at every opponent with the mindset to win.

Q: Do you have any individual goals you hope to accomplish this season?

A: I want to be the best leader for my teammates and a great role model for the underclassmen. I’m also shooting for first team all-conference this year for running back.

Q: As a senior, how are you helping lead the rest of the team?

A: I’m keeping everyone in check at practice, making sure we have the best practices possible, and I try to encourage everyone to stay focused.

Q: Do you have any rituals you go through before a game starts?

A: Before games I always thank the people that got me to where I am now.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Oconto Falls football team?

A: Some of my favorite memories come from the fans. It’s always awesome to hear a loud cheering crowd when we make big plays.

Q: Favorite movie, TV show and musical artist?

A: Movie – “Friday Night Lights.” TV show — “Attack on Titan.” Musical artist – Pooh Shiesty.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I am very invested in hunting.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: “You will always get what you always got, if you always do what you always did.” — Henry Ford

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: I would like to get a scholarship to play football and graduate with a BS degree.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Dylan Thomson

Sport: Football

Positions: Running back, linebacker

School: Oconto Falls High School

Year: Senior