SMCS Football Standout Commits to Queen’s University
St. Michael’s College School’s (SMCS) Carter Wells, Grade 12, has committed to attend Queen’s University and play for the top-ranked Golden Gaels this fall.
“I chose Queen’s because I believe it is the best blend of high-level academics along with an exceptional football programme,” says Wells, who will enter Queen’s Faculty of Engineering. “After spending time touring various universities and their football programmes, Queen’s clearly distinguished itself as my top choice. The engineering programme at Queen’s is well-renowned, as is their very successful football programme.”
From trying his hand at flag football in Grade 8, with no previous experience, to being recruited to play university football for one of the country’s top-ranked programmes, Wells’ development path has been nothing short of impressive.
“Carter Wells exemplifies what it means to be a true student‑athlete,” says Dr. Daniel Lumsden ’96, Sr. Kerry Blues coach and community engagement and learning lead. “His dedication in the classroom matches his drive on the football field, and his achievements in both areas reflect a level of discipline and excellence that inspires everyone around him.”
Wells joined the SMCS Kerry Blues football team in Grade 9, where he developed as both a running back and a defensive end. At Queen’s, he will suit up for the Golden Gaels as a linebacker.
“I like that the Queen’s football team is a close community with exceptional coaching,” adds Wells. “The players on the team praise a brotherhood environment, which is very appealing to me as I believe it will help me adapt to the student-athlete lifestyle. I had the opportunity to visit the campus, tour the facilities, and meet the coaches who were very welcoming—it felt like the right environment for me to succeed.”
His time with SMCS football has been defined not only by competition but also by the relationships and experiences that came with it. From forming lasting friendships to competing across Southern Ontario and in the United States, his Kerry Blues years have left a strong impression.
“My experience playing football at St. Mike’s has been very positive. I’ve met new people and made new friendships, which have developed over the years to become some of my closest relationships,” says Wells, who capped off his football career at SMCS by being named a TCDSB all-star following the 2025 season. “Our coaches fostered an environment where nobody is bigger than the programme, no matter skill level. We were taught to stay disciplined, and that team success is built on trust.”
In the classroom, Wells has emerged as a role model student-athlete, achieving academic success with a similar disciplined, hard-working approach to his course load. He has earned honour roll status every year at SMCS, received the Basilian Book Award (over 90 per cent average) in Grade 9, and finished among the top 10 academically in his Grade 11 class.
“SMCS taught me discipline, time management, and how to prioritize,” says Wells. “The academic workload and the expectations of the football programme really helped to prepare you for what’s next. Furthermore, the rigour of the eight-course academic load teaches us to balance studying along with athletics and other commitments. SMCS teaches us to use free time productively, for example, through extra help sessions with the teachers, which I found very helpful throughout my high school career.”
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