Q & A with Louisville Commit Riley Thompson (Christian Academy of Louisville)
September 11, 2012
By Chris Fuller
With his recent commitment to Louisville, right-handed pitcher Riley Thompson became the first 2015 player in Kentucky to give a verbal commitment. Thompson, currently ranked number 2 in the PBR overall rankings (all states combined), recently chatted with PBR about his decision.
Riley Thompson, RHP, Christian Academy of Louisville, Class of 2015
PBR: Why did you choose Louisville?
Thompson: I chose Louisville because I like the coaches and was impressed with the program, the facilities, and everyone involved with U of L Baseball. Coach McDonnell, Coach Lemonis, Coach Williams, Coach Cheesebrough have all made me feel so comfortable.
PBR: With your commitment coming so early, were you considering any others schools?
Thompson: No, I wasn’t.
PBR: How does it feel to be finished with the recruiting process early in your sophomore year?
Thompson: It is a good feeling knowing where I am going to go and not having to worry.
PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you play?
Thompson: I went to a U of L Baseball camp in the eighth grade. The coaches came to watch some games my freshman year.
PBR: What would you consider your biggest strength as a player?
Thompson: My arm, but I also love to hit and play first base.
PBR: To this point, who has had the biggest impact on your baseball career?
Thompson: My father, Dennis Thompson, Chris Burke, and Matt Baldwin. I also have a great high school coach, Tim Brown, who wants to bring out the best in me.
PBR: Who do you play for in the summer?
Thompson: I play for the IXL Ironmen Baseball Club, managed by Mark Peters and coached by Richie Ware.
PBR: What is your most memorable baseball moment?
Thompson: Pitching as an eighth grader at Applebee’s stadium in Lexington in the All A State Classic. I threw a combined no-hitter in that game.
PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced in the state of Kentucky?
Thompson: Probably Michael Davis of Eastern High School in Louisville.
PBR: What are your goals for your sophomore season at Christian Academy of Louisville?
Thompson: I would like to lower my era, have some home runs, pitch a no-hitter and lead my team to a State championship.