Thrall High School’s Tyler Bonkowski, was honored this past week as a Padilla Coaches Poll 2A-D1 1st Team All-State Tight End. This is a tremendous accomplishment and honor for the versatile junior; however, this honor goes much deeper than stats alone.
Bonkowski is the kind of leader, on and off the field, that any school in the state would be honored to call their own. He boasts a 3.7 grade point average and is a four-sport athlete, competing in football, baseball, track and field and powerlifting. He also served as a team captain for the Tigers’ football team this past season.
While excelling in sports, he is also a leader in the classroom. On any given day, Bonkowski pushes himself and others in the classroom, both with his academic diligence and his attitude. Always a respectful young man, he leads by example, and others follow his lead.
“Tyler is a once in a generation type of kid,” said Aaron Vanecek, Thrall athletic director. “He is one of the two hardest working kids that I’ve ever coached, with tremendous ability. He also has a love for his teammates.”
“You rarely find a young man that has a full toolbox at such a young age,” Vanecek continued. “As a coach, I’d also love to send his parents some love. He has been raised the right way. Raised by supportive parents that have shown him how to live, work, and treat others” During the 2022 season, Bonkowski had 35 receptions for 444 yards, and 10 touchdowns. Additionally, he earned 13-2A Defensive Lineman of the Year and first team tight end. His efforts this season have garnered the attention of college coaches.
