Dylan Thompson, second from left, signed a scholarship with the University of North Alabama Thursday in front of family, friends, students and coaches in the Hartselle High School cafeteria. He is pictured with mom, Christy Greeson (left); his dad, Jeff Thompson (second from right); and Jeff’s wife, Rhonda. | Brent Maze

Dylan Thompson has a unique distinction. He will become a third-generation football player at the University of North Alabama.

His father, Jeff, played at UNA from 1986-1991 and his grandfather, Lynn, was a Lion in the 1960s.

“It’s pretty cool,” the Hartselle senior offensive lineman said. “Coach (Bobby) Wallace coached my dad and now, he’s going to coach me.”

Thompson has been a key component of Hartselle’s recent success. His senior class finished 45-10 over the four years and he started each of his last three years.

The Tigers went to the quarterfinals in his senior season, the semifinals in his sophomore season and winning the state championship his junior year.

Thompson said he knew the 2011 team might have a shot to win it all after a dramatic 22-21 victory at Pinson Valley in the second round.

“We were a little lucky in that game,” Thompson said. “Everything had to fall into place for us to win it all. When we were able to pull it off, I knew we had a chance.”

Thompson didn’t start playing organized football in the seventh grade, playing for Coach Keith Wright.

Hartselle head coach Bob Godsey said the key to Thompson’s success was his work ethic and perseverance.

“He’s a great example of what you can do with a good work ethic. He was willing to pay the price. He’s one of those guys who put in the extra time and effort,” Godsey said. “He had patience and kept working hard. He’s truly one guy I can honestly say that got better every single day. He may have played his best game in the quarterfinals against Muscle Shoals.”