Player Spotlight: David Thompson
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Teammates and fans sometimes refer to David Thompson as David “Chompson”. The senior defenseman earned the nickname because he eats.
On a team highlighted by youth, having an experienced veteran on the ice helps. This is clear on the offensive side by the tempo-controlling captain, David Goodwin. The defense’s old-timer is Thompson.
Statistically, Thompson has had little impact in his final year in Hockey Valley. But his effect has proven to go beyond the stat sheet. He demonstrates the control that a young team requires.
Sophomore defenseman Kevin Kerr has been an absolute force protecting the goal. Kerr has racked up 24 blocks this season, taking a lot of pressure off of the freshman goalie, Peyton Jones.
Thompson facilitates young, energetic players like Kerr, keeping the defense levelheaded and managing the ice.
Even though Thompson is a Pennsylvanian, he made his mark in the British Columbia Hockey League before coming to Penn State. He was named Rookie of the year in his debut season for the Chilliwack Chiefs. After playing on the team, Thompson decided to continue his career at Penn State.
Thompson has started in over 30 games in each season he has been at Penn State.
Offensively, Thompson is quiet. However, in the competitive opening weekend against St. Lawrence, Thompson scored a goal to help the Lions’ split the series.
In his sophomore year at Penn State, Thompson suffered a gruesome injury. He had been knocked off balance and skated into by an opposing player. The collision opened a gash in Thompson’s abdomen, requiring twenty stitches. The injury didn’t keep him off the ice for long and actually left more of a mental scar for the teammates that watched it.
This year, Thompson is getting a less gruesome cut. In an effort to help Penn State’s THON organization that is dedicated to defeating pediatric cancer, Thompson is shaving his head. Thompson prides himself on his long hair. He refers to it as his “flow”.
“Anytime that we get involved in THON, help out in any way, shape or form, is an awesome experience for us,” Thompson said. “I’m really excited about it and it’s for a great cause.”
After the Michigan series this weekend, Thompson is planning on donating his hair to THON.
Thompson has been an silent but impactful facilitator for the Lions during their impressive win streak. Michigan is the biggest test for the Lions since the overtime upset over Notre Dame.
A veteran presence in Thompson could be a difference maker.
Paddy Cotter is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email fpc5043@psu.edu.
