KAMLOOPS - 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.
WOLFPACK TOP 20 MOMENTS IN 20 YEARS – The 'Pack move to the Tournament Capital Centre
After spending the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons - TRU's first campaigns at the CIS (U SPORTS) level - playing their home games in the TRU Gymnasium, the WolfPack made the move to the newly-constructed Tournament Capital Centre in 2007-08 and have called the facility home ever since.
The 1350,000 square foot multi-sport venue boasts both three hardwood courts and the attached Hillside Stadium as well as dedicated space for athlete conditioning / training and office space for WolfPack administration.
Since moving into the Tournament Capital Centre - the first official game was a volleyball exhibition contest Sept. 19, 2007 - TRU has played host to over 850 regular season Canada West games, many playoff series, three U SPORTS National Championships and countless practices at the facility.
There can be no doubt that moving into the TCC solidified the WolfPack among the top of Canadian university sport and laid the foundation for the program to provide an excellent student-athlete experience for all members of the 'Pack.
