Bowdy Thompson, a sophomore at Blackwell High School, is a dedicated student-athlete who brings passion, courage, and pride to everything he does. As a key player on the football and wrestling teams, Bowdy plays multiple roles, including running back, linebacker, and special teams return man and is known for giving his all on the field.
His motivation comes from his family and the vision of a bright future. “My dad and older brother Dayne are my biggest influences,” Bowdy shares. “My dad supports me through everything, and my brother pushes me even when I don’t want to be pushed. We don’t always like each other, but we always love each other.”
Bowdy’s foundation of determination started early, thanks to two special teachers, Mrs. Debbie Neal, and her daughter, Mrs. Tobi Wood, who helped him overcome reading struggles in elementary school. “Mrs. Neal stayed late every Tuesday to help me. She didn’t charge my parents anything. She did it out of the goodness of her heart, and the next year Mrs. Wood kept pushing me. I started 4th grade reading above grade level because of them,” he says gratefully.
Hard work, dedication, and mental toughness have fueled Bowdy’s success in athletics. “I practice how I play,” he says. One unforgettable moment was when he nearly scored a pick-six before an opponent crushed his elbow. Still, Bowdy stays focused, especially when training with teammate Alonzo Palma, who pushes and motivates the team, even when exhausted.
Off the field, Bowdy is active in the Quarterback Club and Blackwell Wrestling Club. He’s also inspired by athlete Gabe Roland, whom he’s known since childhood.
Balancing sports and academics isn’t easy. “It takes a lot of late nights and help from my mom,” Bowdy admits. But it’s all worth it. “It means a lot to represent Blackwell. I’m proud to be a Maroon.” His goals after high school? Compete at the college level and become an engineer.
