Son of prominent UT booster signs with Vanderbilt

Chattanooga Baylor golfer Ryan Thornton, son of John "Thunder" Thornton, has signed to play golf at Vanderbilt.

“Vanderbilt is the best college for me to pursue a degree and the best overall fit," said Ryan Thornton. "I’ve always loved the South and attending Vanderbilt will allow me to remain close to the area where I grew up, and that’s very important. After spending time on campus and meeting the coaches and players, I knew it was where I wanted to spend my four years of college.

"At Vanderbilt I will have the opportunity to compete in golf at the national level and simultaneously earn a degree from one of the finest academic universities in the country. This extraordinary combination of a first class education coupled with exceptional athletics will prepare me for a successful future."

Ryan Thornton tied for medalist honors in leading Baylor to the Division II state championship. He also was a member of the 2005, 2006 and 2007 state champion teams.

John Thornton is a former University of Tennessee trustee and one of UT's more prominent boosters.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
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