A lifelong resident of Frederick County and a graduate of Lincoln High School, Kenny Thompson developed into an outstanding athlete for his high school. In his 11th- and 12th-grade years, he held the Maryland state long jump and high jump records. An excellent basketball player, he helped lead Lincoln High School to various District I and II titles and a state champion title. After graduating and enlisting in the Navy, he again pursued athletic excellence with participation in a variety of sports. Karate led him to a thirst for improving techniques in this sport. He now holds a black belt, a second-degree black belt, and is an outstanding instructor for New York, New Jersey, and Maryland.