With the 2017 season officially in the books, the San Jose Earthquakes have plenty to be proud of on and off the field. A trip to the postseason for the first time in five years and a spot in the U.S. Open Cup semis for the first time since 2004 highlight the calendar year.
Let’s takes a look at how individuals on the team fared this year and how they impacted the club.
Tommy Thompson
For most of the season, Tommy Thompson was just 21 years old, only turning 22 in mid-August. People often forget how young he is because he’s been around since 2014.
Thompson, the first player to ever sign a Homegrown contract in San Jose, had a breakout year in 2017. In MLS play, he set career-highs in appearances (32), starts (16) and minutes played (1,534), while tallying one goal and four assists. He scored a terrific goal against Atlanta United, giving the Quakes an early lead in an intimidating atmosphere. He also started all four U.S. Open Cup games, tallying two assists against the LA Galaxy in the quarterfinals.
Thompson certainly earned his increased role in the squad, and even started in the team’s postseason clash against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
His performance early in the season on the right flank with fellow Homegrown Nick Lima gave Quakes fans a look into a potential combo on that side for years to come. Only time will tell what the future holds.
