Thin-ply composites offer reduced or suppressed matrix cracking and higher strains to first ply failure. Initial tests indicate a significantly different impact damage than for conventional composites, with less delamination and more fibre fracture. The current paper presents models focused on the observed fibre damage, including an analytical model for the response and damage initiation during impact on thin ply composites as well as a finite element FE model for prediction of damage growth. The limitations and challenges of the analytical model and FE model are discussed and illustrated by comparisons with response histories and fractography for drop weight impact on a thin-ply composite laminate.