Blanchard
Thomas' leadership abilities were put to extensive use as football
team captain during his junior and senior years at Benedict College.
For four seasons, from 1960 to 1963, he worked double shills at center
on offense and middle linebacker on defense. He was voted the Tigers'
Most Valuable Player in 1962 and 1963, and was an All-Southern Intercollegiate
Athletic Conference (SIAC) nominee both years.
Thomas
was a fierce competitor who had athleticism, speed and toughness.
Deceptively nimble, he could run down practically anyone on the other
side of the football. He made quick reads and pursued from sideline
to sideline. He knew how to get to opposing ball-carriers and make
home-crushing tackles. Also, he was capable of picking off passes
and junking heroic receptions.
Blanchard's
teammates were inspired by his discipline and hard work. He exerted
a positive influence as a leader who always attempted to be a better
player every day when, he left the football field than he was when
he stepped on it. And, often, he made inspirational speeches to help
rally his team to greater achievement when the need arose. He was
a player who went into the game not just hoping to win, but expecting
to win.
Blanchard Lee Thomas
was a valued educator for 37 years in Columbus, GA, his hometown,
serving as a teacher, coach, counselor and assistant principal. |
