Ian Thompson begins his seventh season with Samford as he moves into his first season as assistant coach of the Bulldogs' golf program. From 2002 through the 2006-07 season, Thompson acted as head coach of Samford's women's team.

A Samford alum, Thompson graduated in 1993 with a degree in journalism and mass communication, specializing in print journalism. He also earned a minor in English literature.

He played on the golf team from 1989-93, placing as high as sixth at the 1990 conference championships.

Shortly after graduation, Thompson took a job as editor of Golf South (formerly Links) Magazine, covering golf in Alabama and Northwest Florida. This is a role he continues to this day. In addition, he writes a biweekly column for The Birmingham News on local golf. He has also written a book chronicling the history of well-known local golf course Shoal Creek, and has been published in multiple national golf magazines.

Thompson was assistant men's golf coach at Samford from 1999-2002.

He grew up in Wimborne in the county of Dorset in South England, moving to the United States on a golf scholarship to Samford at age 20. He has called Birmingham home ever since.

Thompson comes from a golfing family. His brother, Neil, played collegiately at Alexander City (Ala.) Junior College, and earned First-Team Junior College All-American honors.