At 6’5” and 245 LBS, Damian Tharpe is easy to find on the football field. He towers above many teammates and opponents and presents problems for opposing defenses intent on chasing his QB. Tharpe has had a breakthrough senior season and is a big reason for his offense’s success each Friday night.
“I would describe myself as a persistent and fundamental player,” said Tharpe when asked about his attributes. “A good game to me is when my quarterback doesn’t get hit and my running backs have the room and time they need to do their job.”
That’s the selfless attitude necessary for a quality offensive lineman: seldom in the spotlight, unless they mess up. Tharpe has, however, done a great job of committing to getting better and, as offensive tackle is often matched up against an opponent’s best pass rusher, he can’t have an off night. He faced off against what many think is the No. 1 team in the state (Dublin) and got better as a result of battling such a talented team.
“I would say the toughest defense we’ve faced is Dublin,” said Tharpe. “They are big, fast, athletic, and disciplined.”
Lessons against top competition can go a long way in shaping a championship quality team, and Damian’s attention to detail has been honed all season long.
“Damian is a great kid that really cares about this team and his teammates,” said head coach Scott Roberts. “He did a good job for us as a junior. In the off-season, he put on some bulk and has played outstanding football for us on the offensive line. He's become one of the leaders on a group that has been really good for us.”
Here’s to continued good health and championship-caliber Friday nights for one of Swainsboro’s top seniors in 2019.
