Whitefish Bulldog CJ Thew isn’t afraid to swing being a two-sport athlete this fall. 

The senior plays as a cornerback and receiver for the football team as well as teeing off for the golf team. His coaches say he’s a respectful, all-around exceptional athlete – not to mention his playing for the basketball team when winter sports rolls around. 

“I’m looking forward to taking it deep in both, taking a solid playoff run in football and having a chance at state for golf,” Thew said during an interview at the Whitefish Triangular Golf Invite on Sept. 4.  

This weekend, he’ll head to state for golf and make those early season goals a reality. 

At Western A Divisionals for golf on Friday, “he played 18 holes, jumped on a plane, flew from Anaconda, and made it to the sideline just in time for the game against Dillon,” said Shaun Forrest, head golf coach.  

Forrest said Threw will have a similar strategy this weekend and will have to hop in the car around 3:30 p.m. on Friday and head from the State A golf tournament in Polson back to Whitefish for the homecoming game.  

“It’s been impressive to watch his work ethic for both sports. He’s done a great job balancing; it’s not an easy thing to do. A true class act,” Forrest said.  

“I’ve been playing both my whole life. I did golf freshman and sophomore year, and then football junior year. But I love them both so much, I decided why not just try to do both,” Thew said.  

Thew said spent the summer doing football workouts most days followed by a few rounds of golf.  “I just love getting out on the golf course with friends.”   

Beyond the fun, Thew said he has “to stay immensely focused. They’re very different games and the mental aspect is huge for both.” 

“CJ has been an absolute warrior. You would never know he’s doing something tough because of how he handles it,” said Brett Bollweg, head football coach.  

“He shows up where he’s supposed to be, when he’s supposed to be there and works his tail off all the time. I can’t say enough positive things. I’m impressed with his attitude, work ethic, and being a great teammate along the way,” Bollweg said. 

    Bulldog CJ Thew (center) pairs off with Glacier player Torren Murray and Flathead player Korbin Eaton at the Whitefish Triangular golf invite. (Kelsey Evans/Whitefish Pilot)