Perennial power LSU dipped into the Sunshine State and grabbed the nation's #2 110mH Damion Thomas of Northeast High School. Thomas owns a personal best of 13.42 and is a two-time 4A state champion in that event and was runner-up as a freshman in 2014. On the international level, he is the 2016 CARIFTA Games gold medalist and was a member of the IAAF World U20 Championship team for Jamaica. He posted the fastest time of the prelims, 13.48 (-0.8m/s) and looked like a sure fire medal pick before falling in the next round. We caught up with him to talk about his decision and plans for the 2017 track season.
What was the recruiting process like for you?
The recruiting process was great. Meeting all these great NCAA coaches and going to see the campuses is something I will not forget. It's a process that can't be rushed, there is a lot of thought that goes into picking a school where I will excel academically and on the track.
Where all did you visit consider?
The schools I chose to visit were South Carolina, LSU, Southern California, and North Carolina.
What sold you on LSU?
LSU is great in producing hurdlers on the collegiate and professional level. They also offer an exclusive academic program that I could not pass on.
How important was that tradition of hurdle excellence?
Going somewhere with a strong tradition is key. It's knowing that where you sign to has produced great athletes in the past. The track program has experience with my event. I can trust in the program.
I know you are very good in the classroom as well. What do you plan to study and what does it means to you to be a true student-athlete at the next level?
I plan to major in biomedical engineering. Getting a degree from an established institution is important for the future. God gave me the gift to hurdle, but I know that my track career wont last forever. It's nice to know you have the education to start your profession and excel in it after track.
You were on the Jamaican World Youth team and have done numerous international meets. How has that experience helped you get to where you are as the nation's #2 110m hurdler?
Competing on the international level gives you a boost of confidence. It's confidence in knowing you can compete on the highest level against the best in the World. My fall at World Juniors was an humbling experience for me. Its something I wont let define me and I plan to be come back with a humble vengeance this year internationally.
Now that this decision is behind you what are the goals for your senior track season?
With Gods will, my final season in high school will be my statement towards the world. The main goal this year is to break the 13 second barrier in the 110 hurdles and break the World Junior record. I also want to lead my team to a state title, as well as defend my individual title in the 110 hurdles. Pan-am Juniors is the main meet I have circled for this season.
What kind of athlete is LSU getting in Damion Thomas and what are you looking forward to most about heading to Baton Rouge?
LSU is getting an athlete in Damion Thomas who is fearless, competitive, and will do whatever it takes for his team. I am looking forward to adjusting to a new lifestyle for myself on and off the track. I wont' let being a freshman limit my goals for the season and I plan on making it to the NCAA championship in Oregon every year.
I know your family and friends were in attendance at your signing celebration. What does it mean to have them there at your special day?
I know your family and friends were in attendance at your signing celebration. What does it mean to have them there at your special day?
All the family and friends here have seen me from my beginning stages as a child to the young man I am today. Throughout my life they have held my head up high when i was down, and always encouraged me to strive for more.
Lastly, is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you get to where you are at today?
I'd like to first thank God for giving me the gift to run with his purpose. My parents who have guided my life accordingly and taught me the values I need off the track. My first summer track coach, Coach Dawn Spann who I began my track career under. A special thank you to my hurdle coach, Coach Claire who has been there to take me to this next level. He has sacrificed so much of his time working to see me succeed and being pushed to the next level. He has this crucial role in my life and I wouldn't be in the position I am now without him.
Damion Thomas Signing Day Intro Video:
By The Numbers (Personal Bests)
- 55mH (in) - 7.55
- 60mH (in) - 8.09
- 110mH - 13.42
- 300mH - 37.39
