Tommies Men’s Soccer Captures ACAA Championship After Unbeaten Season

Tommies Men’s Soccer Captures ACAA Championship After Unbeaten Season

Fredericton, NB - The St. Thomas University Tommies men’s soccer team, a dominant force in the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association (ACAA), secured the 2024 ACAA championship title, edging out the UKC Blue Devils in a 1-0 final. The victory, anchored by a decisive goal from Gray Cyr in the 55th minute, capped a remarkable season that saw the Tommies go unbeaten with an 11-0-1 record. This achievement also marks their fourth consecutive season without a loss, cementing the program's reputation as one of the top teams in collegiate soccer.

Both teams entered the championship match ready for a battle, with a tense first half that saw chances but no goals. Early in the second half, Cyr broke the deadlock, finding the net in the 55th minute and lifting the Tommies to a lead they would defend with intensity. Despite UKC’s relentless efforts, STU's defense stood firm, securing the narrow but hard-earned victory and claiming yet another ACAA title. Gray Cyr was named player of the game.

This championship win also carries special significance, as it comes in head coach John-Ryan Morrison’s final season with the team. Morrison, who has led the program to new heights, reflected on the momentous achievement: “It’s been an honor to coach such a dedicated group, and to end the season as conference champions with an unbeaten streak dating back to 2019 is a testament to their hard work and resilience.” 

With a program-best national ranking of fourth, the Tommies have continued to rise in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Top 10, joining the ranks of Humber College, Keyano College, and Langara College. 

The Tommies will now set their sights on the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association National Championship, which they will host on home turf at the Grant-Harvey Centre from November 6-9. The tournament will bring Canada’s best collegiate teams to Fredericton, where STU looks to continue its impressive season and compete for a national title in front of their home crowd.