Ian is a midfielder from Rochford. According to the Pink Un (24th October 1998), Youth team coach Keith Webb has a lot of time for Ian Thompson who plays primarily on the right wing, a position he is making his own. "The Canaries have a superb record of producing exciting wingers. Ian has no doubt set his sights on following on in that great tradition" wrote John Landamore. Ian's lightening pace, enthusiasm and confidence are what endears him to the small band of supporters who watch the Youth team."

In February 2001, Ian was released by Norwich and joined Canvey Island. He spent loan spells with Great Wakering Rovers and Bishops Stortford during the 2001/02 season. Canvey Island released Ian during August 2002. He then signed for Maldon Town.

Ian then made the decision to undertake a four-year degree at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona, America. He now combines his studies in airport administration and aeronautical management whilst continuing to play a high standard of football representing the university in the national league. Emory Riddle is the number one flying school and aeronautical university in America - in fact a quarter of the world's commercial pilots have been educated here at Embry Riddle. There are 5,000 students here, which is relatively small compared to most American universities, and the campus is very close to Daytona racetrack. Many of its students go on to become aerospace engineers, work for NASA or train to become air-traffic controllers.