KAMLOOPS - While there have been lots of memorable individual athletic performances over the last 20 years, two athletes carved their places in the history books by being the first TRU student-athletes to be named as First-Team All-Canadians.
In the 2009-10 season, men's volleyball player, Gord Perrin, was recognized as one of the best men's volleyball players in the country and received his First-Team All-Canadian recognition – the first in TRU history. In 2012-2013, women's basketball player, Diane Schuetze became the first athlete from a TRU women's team to be named as a First-Team All-Canadian recognizing her in an elite class of women's basketball players in the country.
Perrin went on to a decorated career as a professional volleyball player and captain of the men's national team. Schuetze continues to be involved with the university game as an assistant coach at the University of Victoria.
In total TRU has had 11 student-athletes named as CIS/U SPORTS First Team All-Canadians
The 2005-2006 season was a significant one for our institution as we transitioned from the University College of the Cariboo to Thompson Rivers University. In March 2005, Thompson Rivers University was officially incorporated under the Thompson Rivers University Act setting our institution on a new path. The year also marked the first time any of our varsity sports – basketball and volleyball – moved from the college ranks to the highest level of university sport in our country - the CIS (now U SPORTS). Fall 2005 also marked the re-brand from the Sun Demons to the WolfPack.
These milestones were made possible by the support, vision and leadership of then President, Dr. Roger Barnsley alongside Vice President Cliff Neufeld; while athletic director, Ken Olynyk, was tasked with beginning the transition of TRU's athletic teams to the CIS. It is also important to note the contributions from the City of Kamloops.
As the WolfPack embark upon our 20th season, we are proud to reflect on and acknowledge 20 incredible moments over the past 20 years. While there were many moments to choose from, a committee of alumni and staff voted on the top 20 moments that we are excited to share with you throughout the season.
