Change in Name and Expanded Focus for Athletics

The Department of Athletics at St. Thomas University has changed to Athletics and Recreation to better reflect the wide range of fitness, wellness, and recreational activities available to students, faculty, and staff.

 

“These changes are in the larger context of STU beginning to expand extra and co-curricular opportunities for students,” said Dr. Nauman Farooqi, President and Vice-Chancellor of St. Thomas University.

 

“This will mean more growth opportunities outside and alongside the classroom in areas such as student services, athletics and recreation, clubs and societies, and experiential learning.”

 

Over the past six months, Athletics and Recreation has begun to expand its recreational offerings with a more robust weekly intramural program and numerous free weekly fitness programs and classes such as yoga, Pilates, dance, and strength training. The JB O’Keefe Fitness Centre, which houses weight training and cardio equipment, offers a faculty and staff membership at a discounted rate.

 

Going forward, Athletics and Recreation will increase these offerings for all community members all the while supporting its varsity sport teams and student athletes. Our 180 student athletes compete on nine teams in six sports with one club team, and they represent STU in the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association and Atlantic University Sport Conferences.

 

“We are thrilled to be expanding and enhancing our servicing in both athletics and recreation as we move into an exciting year for our department,” said Meaghan Donahue Wies, Director of Athletics and Recreation.

 

“Our team is new yet eager and capable, and we are well positioned to take on this expanded mandate and to excel in providing the very best services to STU’s student population, varsity athletes, and staff and faculty.”

 

New Website

Athletics and Recreation relaunched its website gotommies.ca which provides complete information on the schedule and results of games, features on student athletes, and recreation opportunities. You can also follow the Tommies through their active social media accounts and Athletics and Recreation has launched a STU Recreation social media account where they share updates on classes, programs, and other offerings.

 

STU Hosting Two National Championships

STU has a proven track record in hosting regional and national championships and these sporting events showcase the university. STU will be hosting two national championships this year — the CCAA Men’s Soccer National Championship in November and the 2025 CCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship in March. Athletics and Recreation will share more information as we get closer to the events.

Contact Athletics and Recreation

Meaghan Donahue Wies, Director of Athletics and Recreation - mdw@stu.ca 
Emily Oleksuk - Marketing and Events Coordinator - eoleksuk@stu.ca
Mark Gifford, Athletics Coordinator -  mgifford@stu.ca 
Martin Carvajal, Sports Information Officer - mcarvajal@stu.ca