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NATCHEZ – Track and Field standout Markeith Thompson has been named the 2024-25 Gatorade State Player of the Year, capping off a record-breaking season and securing his place as one of the top athletes in the state of Mississippi. 

Thompson, who recently committed to compete at the University of Southern Mississippi, was stunned when he first found out he won the award.

“I was shocked. I was amazed,” Thompson said. “There are great competitors in Mississippi, so I didn’t know if I’d win. But I was very grateful when I saw that I did. I put in the work to earn the title.”

Natchez’s Thompson has been competing for Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Natchez. 

A major turning point in Thompson’s season came at the Pearl Invitational, where Thompson shattered the state record in the 110-meter hurdles. 

“I think that performance helped me lock in the award,” Thompson said. 

But for Thompson, the recognition goes beyond just personal achievement. 

“I feel like this shows that there’s a lot of talent where I’m from,” Thompson. “I want to use the attention I’m getting to shine a light on others who don’t always get the recognition they deserve.”

Thompson’s interest to sign with Southern Miss came after a careful recruiting process. While other schools such as Oregon, South Carolina, and Pittsburgh expressed interest, it was the Golden Eagles’ consistency and support that won him over. 

“They were the only school at my early meets, and they stuck with me the whole time,” Thompson said. “They believed in me before I was running top times.”

In addition to his track ambitions, Thompson plans to major in marketing and eventually transfer to Mississippi State to continue both his athletic and academic career. He already holds a community college degree and brings maturity and vision beyond his years.

As part of the Gatorade award, Thompson was given a $1,000 grant to donate to a nonprofit or sports organization of his choice. He chose RDL Track Club, the local program where his journey began.

“It’s been a great program with a great coach who has always taken care of us, even when we couldn’t afford things,” he said. “It means a lot to be able to give back to where I started.”

His message to younger athletes following in his footsteps: “Stay grounded. Stay dedicated. Trust God. Work with what you have—and always look on the bright side.”