Football: Tyree Thompson starts to emerge at Alemany

Tyree Thompson hasn’t received nearly enough recognition for his efforts on the defensive side of the ball in the past for Mission Hills Alemany. Fair or not, the focus has been typically directed toward his more high-profile peers at the skill positions.

At long last, however, the perception is changing. Thompson is now on the verge of emerging from the shadows. And rightfully so considering the 6-foot-3 and 230-pound senior linebacker is about as talented as any individual on a loaded roster for the Warriors.

“I don’t have an issue with my teammates getting most of the shine,” Thompson said. “Would it be nice to receive some attention? Yes, of course. My head is on straight though. My time is coming, I know that. If I do my job, everything will fall into place.”

Despite the process taking a bit longer than expected, the plan appears to be coming together. Colleges from all over the West Coast are familiar with what Thompson brings to the table. His first scholarship, in fact, could materialize sooner rather than later.

Recruiters, after all, have seen him in action quite a bit the last couple of seasons during scouting trips to keep tabs on teammates and fellow upperclassmen such as USC commit Desean Holmes and Washington State commit Dominic Davis, among others.

A switch this year from defensive lineman to linebacker has probably increased the stock of Thompson in the eyes of the powers that be. He certainly put on a show with close to double-digit tackles in Friday night’s 45-15 intersectional victory over host Dorsey.

Up next for Alemany (4-0 overall) is the Mission League opener against West Hills Chaminade (4-0) on Oct. 2. In the meantime, it will be business as usual. Thompson will wait in the wings and take advantage of the opportunity when it presents itself.

Sean Ceglinsky has covered sports in the Southland for the better part of the past 15-plus years. Follow him on Twitter @SeanCeglinsky