On a monthly basis, the South Boston Neighborhood House, aka the Ollie, recognizes its youngsters by announcing two “Student Spotlight” winners. These young members are recognized for their good behavior, being kind, caring and considerate, as well as being super kids overall. Thomas Gillis is one of the Ollie student spotlight winners for March.
Thomas, 8, is the son of Krista and Thomas Gillis. He has a younger brother, Gavin, and a dog, Gilly. He’s in the second grade at the Perry Elementary School in Southie. He likes recess and math, and someday plans on being a professional boxer.
Thomas’ favorite color is blue and his favorite food is pizza from The Village because he lives right near there. His favorite show is “Lab Rats” and he really likes watching Patriot’s stars Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski play on TV.
Thomas is a busy lad in the world of sports. He loves football best, but enjoys other sports because he thinks they’re fun. He has played in the South Boston Pop Warner Football League for the past three seasons and loves tackling opponents and scoring touchdowns for his team. He has played basketball at the Walsh Center gym for two years in the Gate of Heaven CYO program. He played in the South Boston Youth Soccer League for two years, in the local hockey league for one season, and has played baseball locally for four years. He likes hitting homeruns and said he hit five last season – two in one game.
At home, Thomas loves watching TV and playing with his younger brother Gavin. At the Ollie, he does his homework and likes to play with the other kids. He enjoys going to the Ollie and the staff enjoy him being there, too.
“Thomas is a very shy kid,” said Ollie group leader, Danielle Chapin. “He has opened up and has come a long way and now helps out as much as he can. He’s terrific… a really good kid.”
If Thomas were the president of the United States, he said that he would, “Build indestructible walls that people could hide behind so they won’t get hurt by bombs…and build playgrounds for adults, kids, and dogs so they can play together.”
