We take a look at Newman graduate Thomas Bates with our world-famous interview, ‘Pancakes or Waffles?’ to learn more about what makes the Cardinal multiple sport athlete ‘tick.’
OnFocus: What subjects/classes have been your favorite, and why?
Bates: English class and Lifetime Activities (Gym) class because they are both with my closest friends.
OnFocus: What are some memorable moments you have had as an athlete?
Bates: Playing football with my brother my freshman year, winning state in football twice, the regional final basketball game against Columbus Catholic senior year, winning state in basketball, overcoming ACL surgery, anytime PRing in track and field
OnFocus: What are your hobbies?
Bates: Music, being outdoors, working out
OnFocus: Who is/was your first favorite teacher and why?
My first favorite teacher was Mr. Gress because he was a good, relatable teacher who could make learning fun.
OnFocus: What is the most unusual food you have eaten?
Bates: Deep fried bratwurst
OnFocus: What is your favorite music to listen to?
Bates: Country/Folk or Heavy Metal depending on my mood.
OnFocus: What are your plans after high school?
Bates: Electrician Apprenticeship
OnFocus: If they made a movie about you, and your life, what would it be called?
Bates: Thomas Jerome Bates
OnFocus: What sports did you play throughout your high school career?
Bates: Football, Basketball, Track and Field
OnFocus: Which teammate would you not want to be stranded with on a deserted island?
Bates: Sam Beaumont
OnFocus: What are some memorable moments you have had as an athlete?
Bates: Playing football with my brother my freshman year, winning state in football twice, the regional final basketball game against Columbus Catholic senior year, winning state in basketball, overcoming ACL surgery, anytime PRing in track and field
OnFocus: Who are your favorite athletes and/or teams?
Bates: Grayson Allen, Adrian Peterson, Tim Tebow, Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, Tennessee Volunteers Baseball
OnFocus: What do you enjoy most about competing in front of family, friends and fans?
Bates: Being able to represent Newman Catholic Athletics in a positive, hard-working manner.
OnFocus: Do you have a funny or unusual moment(s) you have experienced in sports?
Bates: Airballing a three pointer against Edgar my senior year, earning a double foul with Wausau West Forward Jackson Albee, receiving handoff from Matt Hamilton in the 4×4 and him yelling “I can’t see!”
OnFocus: What’s the best thing about being a student-athlete?
Bates: Being able to leave class early for a far away game.
OnFocus: What words of wisdom can you give to other student-athletes?
Bates: Learn how to manage your time wisely.
OnFocus: Lastly, pancakes or waffles?
Bates: I don’t discriminate.
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
