U Sports

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

by
3Down Staff
November 20, 2025

Photo courtesy: Connor Hood/Alberta Golden Bears

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.

↑ what lands at 3 p.m. daily

3DownNation Daily

Get game analysis, stats, and more daily at 3pm

Here’s exactly what you’ll get.

One email. Every weekday at 3 p.m. Your daily CFL briefing.

Canadian football's biggest stories
Smart game analysis
Every CFL transaction covered with exclusive insight

Free. Unsubscribe anytime. By signing up you agree to receive daily emails from 3DownNation, as well as our terms of service and privacy policy. 1900 Rose St, Regina SK S4P 0A9.

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.