Note: The following appears in the South Carolina gameday football program
It is not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives…it’s what we do consistently.” The quote is from motivational speaker Tony Robbins, who has extolled the virtues of doing the right things every day. The pattern that develops from a consistent approach leads to long-term success.
Trevion Thompson, a graduate wide receiver playing in his final game in Death Valley today against South Carolina, has displayed consistency that Robbins would be proud of.
Thompson, a Durham, N.C., native, matriculated to Clemson with impressive credentials. The Hillside High School product was a North Carolina Shrine Bowl selection and was the No. 15 wide receiver in the nation by Scout. After receiving his first offer from Clemson during his sophomore year, Thompson became more and more comfortable with his decision to commit to Clemson.
“The first offer I had was from Clemson,” recalled Thompson. “Every time I came to visit, it seemed like home. The family atmosphere and culture made me want to be a part of it.”
Since Thompson redshirted during the 2014 season, the notoriety of the Clemson wide receiving corps has continued to impress. Mention “WRU” to fans and coaches throughout college football, and Clemson is at the top of the list. DeAndre Hopkins, Jaron Brown, Sammy Watkins, Adam Humphries, Martavis Bryant, Charone Peake, Mike Williams and Ray-Ray McCloud have all shown their mettle at the next level in recent seasons.
“I wanted to come to a school that would throw the ball and win. Before Clemson started recruiting me, I didn’t know that much about the program that was being built by coach (Dabo) Swinney.
“The success by those guys in the wide receiver room while they were at Clemson and now in the NFL makes Clemson a place that a wide receiver wants to be.”
The 2014 season was a year when Thompson redshirted and polished his craft. The tutelage from Humphries, a current Tampa Bay Buccaneer and former teammate, during that time laid the foundation for the success that Thompson has achieved.
“Adam was a great leader and a hard worker who kept getting better every year. He was an example of what a Clemson football player should be. I am a better player and leader because of him.”
Last Saturday against Duke, Thompson moved closer to Humphries in the Clemson recordbook. He has now played 52 career games, trailing only Humphries’ 53 games, the most ever by a Tiger wide receiver. His previous relationship with Humphries makes the achievement even more special.
Co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Jeff Scott has been with Thompson during his entire time at Clemson. The diligent work and consistency has not gone unnoticed.
“Trevion’s perseverance and dedication to our program has been a big positive in our wide receiver room,” said Scott. “The way he carries himself has been a great example to our younger players. He has been a consistent player and has always been prepared the last five years.”
The admiration between Scott and Thompson are mutual. Thompson has appreciated all of the guidance that has been provided.
“Coach Scott was a big reason I came to Clemson,” stated Thompson. “He is not only a great coach, but a great person who cares for his players, both on and off the field. The way he has pushed me every day is something I will never forget.”
The memories and the achievements of the past five years are difficult to chronicle in the space provided for this story. Three ACC championships (with a fourth opportunity upcoming next weekend), the most wins by a senior class in the ACC, a national championship, three College Football Playoff appearances and graduating with a degree in parks, recreation & tourism management in December 2017 leave a legacy that will not be forgotten.
“There are so many things I will never forget. From running down the Hill to winning a national championship to graduating has been so special. We still have so many more opportunities to make even more. I am going to enjoy every moment that is left.”
There have been many memorable catches in his 52 games as a Tiger, but one against South Carolina during his freshman season in 2015 still stands out.
Clemson was undefeated heading into the annual rivalry game against the Gamecocks and was in a battle closer than most expected in Columbia. With just over 10 minutes remaining and facing third down, Deshaun Watson found Thompson for a 24-yard gain and a first down. Watson would go on to score on the drive to secure the victory against the Gamecocks.
“If I had to pick one play in his career, I would go back to his freshman year at South Carolina,” remembered Scott. “People forget that was a very competitive game in the fourth quarter. His big catch near the sideline from Deshaun on a third down allowed us to continue the drive and then score a touchdown.”
While Thompson may not have the gaudy statistics of others, his consistency and playmaking ability lead many to think he will be playing on Sundays next year. More than one person has compared him to former Tiger standout and current Seahawk Jaron Brown.
“I want to be an example to those who are in the shadows. My mom, Tamara, who has meant everything to me, has taught me so much. She has shown me that everything in life does not come easy, but if you stick with it, you can achieve great things.
“Jaron was not the featured guy when he was here. But he kept working hard and put himself in the position where he is today.”
It will not be a surprise to see Thompson playing at the next level. The consistency, positive energy and leadership during his time as a Tiger would seem to indicate future success for all to be proud of.
