In three seasons as an assistant coach at UALR, Thill assisted with Trojan distance runners and obtained his Level I certification from the USATF. The Fayetteville, Ark.-native competed collegiately at Coffeyville Community College where he was a three-time academic All-America selection.
 
At Fayetteville High School, he earned all-state honors in cross country in 2002 and all-state honors in the mile for indoor track and field in 2003.  He was a member of the all-state 4x800 meter relay team in 2003 and helped his team with the 2004 5A State Outdoor Track and Field title.