As Boys High School Age Group Director for DC Stoddert, Thompson helped high school boys players with the college placement process. His role was to help with HUDL videos and meet with families to help them through the process and point them in this new direction. During his time as the Boys AGD, Thompson helped place over 25 players at the Division I, Division II, and Division III levels. 

Thompson started this new position at the beginning of the 2020-21 Season. His main role is to communicate with families and players on college playing opportunities, organize events to educate and prepare high school age group players for the collegiate level, and to give players and families more information and go through the step-by-step process of recruitment. He also speaks with college coaches on behalf of DC Stoddert players. 

Thompson’s goal is to make sure that players are aware that there is a pathway to the college process if that’s what they choose. “DC Stoddert is very fortunate to not only have very talented players, but to also have those players be very strong academically,” said Thompson. “DC Stoddert has this pathway for them and will help them achieve their goals at whatever level of play they choose.” 

Thompson spoke about the college placement process and how it has changed in the last five years as a result of technology. Previously, he said that college coaches would show up to a field and take notes on players they liked. Now, college coaches come to tournaments with a list of players to look at because they have been sent videos. 

“Players now have to be more proactive by researching schools and sending emails and videos,” said Thompson. “The first and most important step is to decide what kind of schools you’re interested in based on the location, size, and academic programs.”

When asked what makes a good coach, Thompson said that it is all about building relationships. He emphasized the importance of having a player-centered approach and being able to see players’ needs. In his eyes, being a good coach is caring about the players and making sure they understand that coaches are there first and foremost to help guide them.