By Jon Johnson
THATCHER – After terrorizing opposing quarterbacks and running backs in the 3A Conference the last few years, Thatcher senior defensive lineman Travis Larson will be tackling at the next level come next fall after signing to play football for The South Dakota Mines Hardrockers of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
The South Dakota Mines Hardrockers football program competes in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), which is part of NCAA Division II. Last year, they finished 3-8. Travis is one of five players from Arizona who have signed with the team.
Hardrockers’ head coach Charlie Flohr welcomed Larson to the team along with the other new signees.
“Travis is a long, big-framed kid that plays with an edge as a Defensive lineman,” Flohr said.
The 6’4“, 240-pound Larson was a beast in the 3A Conference last year, earning All-Conference recognition.
During a signing ceremony at Thatcher High School on Wednesday, Travis’ father, Jason Larson, spoke briefly about how Travis has grown as a player and person. He said Travis has molded into a leader who is always willing to step up and do what is needed. Jason added that the family will be eagerly anticipating the coming season.
“I’m grateful for his opportunity, and it’s going to be a cool journey to see, so I’m excited for him,” Jason Larson said.
Thatcher head football coach Dan Jones called Travis the heart and soul of the football program, who attacked everything with passion.
“If you want to play ball and you have passion for it and you put yourself in the right positions and you go hard, this is a testament to who Travis is, and we’re excited for him after being done representing TE, go down and show those Midwest boys how you really play football.”
In correspondence with the Gila Herald, Dan Jones couldn’t hide his pride.
“So excited for Travis getting to live out his dream to play college football,” Jones wrote. “He worked incredibly hard as a Thacher Eagle, and I’m sure the Hardrockers are getting a great football player and a great man! Go be great, Travis. We are all behind you!”
