Kerry Blues Veteran Commits to Laurier
Grade 12 student-athlete, Hugo Thomas, has committed to spending the next chapter of educational journey in Waterloo, representing the purple and gold of Wilfrid Laurier University. The St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) wide receiver will join the Golden Hawks this fall while pursuing a business degree. “I chose Wilfrid Laurier University because of the winning culture, the coaching staff, and the amazing academics,” says Thomas. “From the beginning, it felt like a place where success is expected—not just on the field but in the classroom too. The coaches made me feel valued and showed real belief in my development as both a player and a person. I wanted to be part of a programme that pushes you to be your best every day.” Thomas will enter Laurier’s honours BA programme with a focus on business management, allowing him the flexibility to explore different areas of study while building a strong foundation in business and leadership. “Laurier’s strong reputation in business and management stood out for me, as well as the strong support system available to student-athletes,” says Thomas. “I like that the programme emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and real-world application—all things that connect directly to athletics. The balance between academics and athletics is something Laurier does well, and that was important to me.” His passion for football was ignited in Grade 6, playing flag football, before transitioning to tackle football in Grade 9 at SMCS. “I grew up playing football on my elementary school team and spending hours throwing the ball around with friends,” adds Thomas. “I lived in Revelstoke, B.C., and Collingwood, Ontario, and in both places, football was something I loved doing any chance I got.” During Thomas’ teenage years, he thrived as a multi-sport athlete, splitting his time between basketball, hockey, track and field, in addition to his commitment to football. “Growing up, I was always
