A faint buzz of the Friday night lights rings out as Senior Anthony Thompson runs out onto the turf. Thompson gathers around his teammates of four years, feeling his heart race through his pads. One last huddle, and then he sets himself for the coming play. Before the snap the field quiets with focus and the crowd roars with anticipation.

Thompson has been playing football since elementary school. When he was young he would watch his older brother Skyler Thompson play football. Skyler graduated from Fort Osage High School and continued his education and athletic career at Kansas State University, he then played professional football with the Miami Dolphins. Anthony feels his brother inspired him to jump into football.

“I saw that he was having fun with it and figured I would join it and it turned out to be one of the more fun things in my life,” Thompson said.

Thompson has been jumping back and forth this year from his regular position as a linebacker to a new position as a running back. Thompson leads by example, he already has 262 yards and 36 carries this season as well as 18 tackles, 10 of those being solo tackles. His leadership is also felt through his voice, pumping up the boys before stepping under the Friday night lights. Senior Alex Snodgrass feels Thompson’s ability to humble himself allows him to have a bigger impact on the team.

“He’s a very humble person, honestly one of the most genuine and humble people I know,” Snodgrass said.

Thompson plans on continuing his education in college. He hopes to continue his football career and earn a construction management degree. Senior Dillion White believes that Thompson was born a leader and can do anything he wants. White is honored to finish his high school career with him.

“I’ve never felt better and have never been more excited than I am to experience my senior year with him,” White said.

Thompson is focused on enjoying his senior year and soaking up memories with his friends and family. He believes his success is attributed to not only him but his family for supporting him through highs and lows. Thompson hopes to make this last season count and end up in the state football game.

“I want to make that 15-week journey and win state with all my teammates,” Thompson said. “I’ve been playing with [them] since 1st grade and the coaches that have been coaching me this whole time.”

The ball snaps and the rush of adrenaline kicks in. Thompson’s locked in on his target and moves across the field. He closes the gap between him and the opponent. He lowers his shoulders and drives for the legs. Thompson comes up with the stop and is surrounded by cheers and pats from teammates.