Athlete of the Week: Giovanni Thomas, Foundation Academy football

At only 14 years old, Foundation Academy’s Giovanni Thomas already has mastered the art of being a two-sport athlete. 

Thomas shines on the football field, playing for Supreme Flag Football as a three-time USA Football National team select. His most recent appearance for the team was at the 2026 Select Bowl Friday, June 19, to Saturday, June 20. Thomas’ Orlando Cowboys 14U and high school A Division football team also won the Gotham City Bowl Sunday, July 19. The team earned 18 total championship titles the past season. 

In track, Thomas won first place in the 4x100-meter in his first meet of the season Wednesday, March, 25. 

What do you enjoy most about football? 

Playing with my friends and traveling playing against different competition.

When did you start football, and why did you join? 

I started at 4 years old. 

What is your best memory in football — individually or with your team?

My best memory was winning my first out-of-state tournament in the Dallas Cowboys’ (AT&T Stadium) and catching the game-winner.

What has football taught you? 

Football taught me perseverance and to deal with adversity, because that’s how life is. Never give up — no matter the score.

How would you describe yourself as a teammate?

I describe myself as a teammate as leading by example with my play. 

What advice would you give someone who just joined football? 

I would say put having fun as No. 1 and (always) put that first. 

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?

If I were a coach, I would speak about being a leader and letting your play be the example. 

What is your pre-game ritual?

My pre-game ritual is listening to music. 

If you could pick a different sport, what would it be? Why? 

If I could pick a different sport, I would do track, but I already do it. I like track, as well. 

Who do you look up to the most? 

I look up to my parents the most. 

What is something new you would like to learn?

Something new I’d like to learn is to drive. 

Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida?

I would want to live in Los Angeles if I weren’t here. 

If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money? 

I would invest a third of it, save a third and give the other third to my family. 

What future career do you want to have? 

My future career dream is to make it to the NFL. 

If you became famous, what would it be for? 

If I became famous, it would be for football. 

If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose?

My favorite animal is a dog. 

Why did you pick your jersey number?

I picked my jersey No. 2 because it’s my dad’s.