SAC's State Championship MVP Christian Thompson Says Playing for The Dons Propelled Him Toward His Goals
When the time came for the Santa Ana College (SAC) Dons baseball team to select their 2023 state championship game Most Valuable Player, one name rose to the top of the list: Christian Thompson.
The 20-year-old Buena Park resident recently celebrated with his teammates during Santa Ana College night at Angel Stadium, remembering the Dons' May 2023 championship series, which included an 8-7 victory over Folsom Lake College in a grueling, 5-hour, 15-inning matchup. In the final game of the state tournament, outfielder Thompson batted leadoff, going five-for-five with two doubles and a walk. The Dons beat Saddleback College, 21-8.
“I couldn't be stopped," he said. “And I propelled our offense into not being able to be stopped. My goal was to go out strong in the Dons uniform. I stayed in control, trusting my approach."
Thompson is no stranger to chasing his goals. Obsessed with baseball since age four, Thompson spent his youth as a standout Little League and travel ball player. He came to SAC in 2021 from Cypress High School, during the uncertainty of the pandemic when many college seniors were returning for a fifth year to make up for lost seasons.
“My high school coach recommended Santa Ana and my decision to attend really came down to wanting to work with Santa Ana's Head Coach Tom Niles," Thompson said.
Now, after two standout years with the Dons, Thompson is preparing to transfer to University of Cumberland in Kentucky in the fall, where he will play for the Cumberland Patriots. He credits his time at SAC for helping him mature mentally and grow as a player.
Christian Thompson signs his letter of commitment to transfer to University of Cumberland
While at SAC, Thompson focused on completing his general education courses, and plans to major in business and finance at Cumberland. He hopes to pick up more playing time and stats in Kentucky and try to sign with a professional team after that, but he's also focused on becoming a financial advisor.
“I'm already working toward getting my finance license," he said.
For incoming SAC student-athletes, Thompson offers this advice: “Stay true to yourself. Focus on your goals. Focus on your future."
He also reminded future Dons to look out for each other: “Always make sure your teammates are good," he said. “You will learn a lot of lessons here and go through a lot of highs and lows. Playing for Santa Ana teaches you how to get through that together."
