Every great story has a strong beginning — and for Eythan “Big E” Thompson, that beginning was at EOAC’s Latimer Head Start, now known as Woodrow Logan Head Start, where he was part of the Class of 2012.
Today, Eythan is a proud graduate of La Vega High School and Texas State Technical College, and a Division I athlete at the University of Houston, where he’s pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. But his story isn’t just about athletic achievement — it’s about character, heart, and the power of community.
At a recognition event, Eythan’s high school football coach shared a story that perfectly captures who “Big E” is.
“The assistant principal came to me one day and asked, ‘Do you have a player named Eythan Thompson?’” the coach recalled.
“He said, ‘I just want to tell you what this young man does. Every day, after lunch, when everyone else leaves, he helps the custodial staff clean off tables.’”The coach paused, then added, “I’ve coached 32 years in Texas High School Football. I’m not sure I’ve met a better person — including adults — than this guy right here.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Hard Work
Eythan’s journey through Connally ISD and La Vega ISD was marked by academic excellence and service. He earned spots on the A–B Honor Roll, achieved perfect attendance, placed in UIL Math, and participated in AVID, GEAR UP, and the Gentlemen’s Club.
At La Vega, he continued to thrive — not just in the classroom, but across varsity sports including football, basketball, track and field, and powerlifting.
His powerlifting accomplishments are historic:
- 2024 & 2025 Class 4A UIL State Super Heavyweight Champion
- Junior year total: 1,865 lbs.
- Senior year total: 1,935 lbs.
His success earned him recognition across Texas — including “Eythan Thompson Day” in Bellmead, proclaimed by the Bellmead City Council and its citizens on May 13, 2025, and the title of Super Centex Athlete of the Year.
🎥 Watch Eythan’s Story on KXXV
📺 Watch the Super Centex Feature on YouTube
The Future Ahead
Even while excelling in athletics, Eythan pursued academics through La Vega’s Early College High School Program, earning his Mechanical Engineering Certification from Texas State Technical College before high school graduation. He was also a member of the National Honor Society, Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, and graduated with honors as a P-TECH student.
On February 5, 2025, Eythan signed his National Letter of Intent with the University of Houston, where he now studies mechanical engineering and plays defensive line for the Houston Cougars.
So, when you tune in to a University of Houston football game, be sure to look for #96 — and remember that it all started in an EOAC Head Start classroom.
Building Bright Futures
At EOAC, we believe every child deserves a strong start — and Eythan’s journey is a shining example of what’s possible when that foundation is built early.
Congratulations to Eythan “Big E” Thompson and the EOAC Head Start Class of 2025 Alumni! Your story inspires us all.