Paden City senior Clayton Thomas is in this week’s Sports Spotlight.

Paden City High School Senior Clayton Thomas is this weeks Tyler Star News Spotlight athlete. Thomas is a two sport star for the Wildcats and has been a force for the past three seasons on the football field and as a regular infielder for the Cat’s baseball team. This coming season may be the one Wildcat football fans have been waiting for. When it comes to big play makers, Thomas fits the mold!

He has the natural ability to make things happen and open up opportunities for the rest of the team. Area football fans are in for a treat when they see Thomas play this year, he is a hard worker who gives his best each and every time he hits the field. Whoever the Wildcats are up against, opponents will think twice before trying to stop this Wildcat.

During his baseball career with Paden City, he has shown the ability to make big timely plays and to get the big hits when needed. He is the same type athlete on the football field. He wants to win and lets nothing stand in his way. In the past he has played several different positions for the Cat’s and this season should be no different . Wherever they need him he will be sure to step in and fill the spot. However, it looks like he may be the guy to give the ball to as much as possible.

“I expect Clayton to have a big year this season. He is one of those guys who is all in for our program. Clayton is a special kind of player who you want on your football team. He’s strong, fast, quick, and knows nothing less than 110%. He’s a natural leader and it shows during practice and in the weight room. His offseason dedication has been unreal as he has been studying his playbook and increased a ton of weight in the weight room. Clayton benches more than 315 pounds and deadlifts 500 pounds. I expect him to be an unstoppable force on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball and he expects the same as well,” said Wildcat Coach Zach Heasley.

Heasley knows a little bit about success himself, having played for the Wildcats for four seasons and just finishing up a nice caeer at West Liberty University. “I have a lot of confidence in Clayton Thomas and I am going to give him the chance to show everyone what I know he can do. If he stays healthy we could see some huge numbers from him this season. I know he’s capable of accomplishing whatever he sets his mind to and that’s part of what it takes to be a winner. You have to have the right mindset,” added Heasley.

With football season right around the corner Thomas is working everyday in the weight room and on the field in anticipation of doing what he can to give the Wildcats the winning edge and to make his senior season at Paden City one he will always remember.