North Bay, Ontario – Nipissing Lakers Men's Hockey announced Friday the signing of recruit Matthew Thomas to the program for the 2026-27 season and beyond.
 
Thomas, a native of Wheatley, Ontario, plays defence. Matt began the 2025-26 season in the BCHL's Brooks Bandits. Stops at the Powell River Kings and Sherwood Park Crusaders ultimately led Thomas to the OJHL's Leamington Flyers, where he scored 24 points in 16 games played to finish the season.
 
When asked to describe expectations he has for himself and the team, Matt said "I want to bring what I have accomplished in junior hockey and translate that into the OUA while maintaining good academic standing. My expectation for the team is to be competitive every night and battle hard. Our goal of winning a national championship excites me."
 
Thomas was named the OJHL's Western Conference Player of the Month for March of 2026 after he lead all skaters with 22 points in 12 games played.
 
Matt will be enrolling in Nipissing's Bachelor of Physical and Health Education program.
 
When asked why he chose Nipissing, Thomas said "I like that Nipissing is a smaller school, which provides a good opportunity to know my professors and everyone in my classes.  I know others who have attended Nipissing and have heard good things about the school and the natural landscape that surrounds the campus.  As an athlete, I am excited to be part of the hockey program and can't wait to get started in the fall."
 
Welcome to the Lakers, Matt!
 
#GoLakers