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Harold "Buck" Thompson

2008

Football

Basketball

Harold "Buck" Thompson holds a unique distinction in Manasquan High School history: he was the first MHS graduate to play professional football. After dominating at MHS, Thompson attended the University of Delaware, where he earned AP Honorable Mention All-American honors.


In 1947, Thompson signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers of the All-America Football Conference, making history as the first Warrior to reach the professional level. His groundbreaking career was recognized with induction into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame.


Thompson's pioneering legacy opened the door for generations of Manasquan athletes to dream of professional careers in sports.

Harold "Buck" Thompson

MHS's first pro football player — the Brooklyn Dodger from the class of 1940.

Profile Highlights

  • Class of 1940

  • University of Delaware — AP Honorable Mention All-American

  • AAFC Brooklyn Dodgers — 1947

  • First MHS player to play professional football

  • Delaware Sports Hall of Fame

© 2026 Manasquan High School Athletics Hall of Fame

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