All the way from Aracaju, Brazil, Gustavo Lobato has committed to St. Thomas University men’s volleyball team, making him one of the most high-profile recruits in ACAA history.

 

A star in his home state of Sergipe, Lobato helped his high school team capture the bronze medal at the Brazilian national championships and represented his state in a national tournament where they reached the semifinals.

 

“The commitment of Gustavo Lobato will take our program to the next level. After a 5th place finish at the CCAA championships, the coaching staff was determined to bring in additional heavy hitters to help us bring home a national banner,” says STU head coach Henri Mallet.

 

Lobato has spent his most recent years in Chili where he has been studying and playing volleyball. His most recent club team Asociación de Vina del Mar won the regional championships each of the past three seasons as well as a third-place finish at Nationals (Universidad Vina del Mar.)

 

Lobato was named best player in his region every year he has suited up for Vina Del Mar.

“As a hybrid and experienced player because I play beach volleyball as well, I think that I can add in every aspect of the game. Especially always trying to make a play offensively,” says Lobato

 

Lobato is an explosive player that will be must watch TV in the ACAA.

 

“Lobato will bring a level of play to St. Thomas that is world class. He excels at every skill on the court. We are looking forward to him bringing his South American energy to Fredericton” added Mallet.

 

Lobato will be taking his classes online starting in September and will travel to Fredericton in January to begin practices with the rest of the team.

Its been a long recruiting process for him but he is excited to finally make his move to Canada as soon as possible.

 

“St. Thomas University was my favorite option because since the beginning, I had a great relation with head coach Henri Mallet. All the guys seem to be connected as a team which is important to me,” added Lobato.

 

Although competition has been cancelled for the Fall semester, the Tommies are hopeful to defend their Championship if and when the ACAA returns to play in January 2021. STU Programs will have the opportunity to hone their skills with training starting in October. The Tommies will look to claim their sixth title in eight years.

 

“All my efforts will be put to winning the national championship, bringing the title to Fredericton,” says Lobato.

 

Lobato joins Liam Graves (Lower Sackville, NS), Liam Croft (Oromocto, NB) and Jackson Pichurski (Calgary, AB) as additions to the Tommies for the 2020-2021 season.