Alberta receiver Chevy Thomas wins prestigious Russ Jackson Award for academic achievement & community service

University of Alberta receiver Chevy Thomas has won the prestigious Russ Jackson Award as the top student-athlete in Canadian university football.

Named in honour of Canadian Football Hall of Fame quarterback Russ Jackson, the award recognizes the U Sports player best exemplifying the attributes of academic achievement, football skill, and citizenship.

Thomas is an Academic All-Canadian and respected team captain who founded Responsibility 2 Inspire (R2I), a non-profit organization that provides accessible, high-level football development for under-advantaged youth by removing financial barriers to sport participation. He also volunteers with Free Play for Kids, VOICE, and as a coach for multiple sports.

On the field, the native of Calgary, Alta., recorded 35 catches for 472 yards and one touchdown in his final U Sports season.

He beat out Carleton defensive back Luigi Zagaria, Concordia defensive back Isaac Pepin, and Saint Mary’s punter Cameron Brown for the award.

The Saskatchewan Huskies and Montreal Carabins meet in the Vanier Cup at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on Saturday, November 22. Kickoff is slated for 2 p.m. EST on CBC.