Meet Cooper Thompson, a standout student-athlete at Deshler High School, where she excels both on the court and in the classroom.
Her impact as an outside hitter for coach Jana Killen and the Deshler volleyball team is undeniable, as she holds an impressive hitting percentage of .228. In addition, she has 691 kills, 47 total blocks, 60 assists, and 658 digs.
She also shines on the basketball court, where she plays guard under the guidance of Killen, a 34-year Deshler girls’ basketball veteran who has captured seven state titles in her storied tenure in Tuscumbia.
Cooper’s athletic prowess is matched only by her strong sense of teamwork. “We’re all a family (at Deshler). If somebody were to call me and say they had a flat tire, I would drop what I was doing and help them. We all go together and help each other to push us to be the best we can be,” Cooper says, highlighting the close-knit bond she shares with her teammates.
When she’s not dominating in sports, Cooper is equally impressive in her academic pursuits. She balances her rigorous athletic schedule with her studies, maintaining a 4.0 GPA along the way. Her favorite subject is chemistry, and that passion aligns well with her plans to major in nursing at The University of Alabama after she graduates in May 2025.
In addition to her academic and athletic commitments, Cooper is a proud Student Council member, taking on leadership roles to further contribute to her school community.
The daughter of Andy and Keller Thompson, Cooper is setting herself up for a bright future, and her achievements so far are a testament to her hard work and dedication in all areas of her life. TG
Photos by Al Blanton