Strawberry Crest senior Tanner Thompson came into a new program as a 5-foot-5 freshman. Now 6-3, 215 pounds, Thompson was a power hitter for the SCHS baseball team this season, hitting .269 with 18 RBI and two home runs while starting at first base. He is committed to play at Division II Barry University in Miami. He will make that official Friday with a signing ceremony at his school.
How did you choose Barry University?
Over the summer, I’ve been playing with a travel ball team. They said they saw me at East Cobb (Ga.), when we were playing in a big tournament up there. They were at a showcase I was at Florida Atlantic and started talking to me more. A couple weeks after that, I went down to officially visit the school and meet the coaches and players. A week after that, the coach asked me if I wanted to commit, and I said, ‘Yeah.’
What ultimately led you to choose Barry?
Going down and seeing the campus is really what got me. It’s impressive and beautiful. Their baseball team is solid. I went to one of their games, and it seems like a good program and one that fits me.
In addition to playing first and hitting, you pitched this last year at Strawberry Crest. What will your role be in college?
They want me to hit and play first base. They were more attracted to my hitting and defense.
What do you like about playing first base?
I like that it’s a laid-back position, and it fits my size. First basemen are supposed to be pretty big in size and be a major power hitter on the field.
Any moments that stand out for you during your senior season?
Probably hitting a home run on my Senior Night. That was probably most enjoyable. And I threw a shutout in the district tournament against Armwood.
You came to SCHS when its program was just beginning. What was it like to be a part of that?
Our coach was really good for us being a brand-new program. The program has always kind of clicked. Everybody is good friends on the team. The practices are pretty well held together.
What do you want to study?
Sport management. I’d like to do something involved with baseball — a trainer, a hitting coach or maybe even a sports announcer. I would love to do that.
Outside of baseball, what do you like to do for fun?
I like to play basketball and football and fish, as a hobby. I also like to surf when we go to the beach and hang out with friends.Papago P3 –