NWP Wolves Honouring Legendary Volleyball Coach Ron Thomson

Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is inviting fans, alumni, and community members to celebrate the legacy of legendary volleyball coach Ron Thomson on Saturday, November 14. The festivities will kick off during the afternoon Wolves home games in the gymnasium, ahead of a formal induction into the Wolves Wall of Fame at a celebratory dinner on campus.

With more than 500 competitive victories, five Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Volleyball Coach of the Year honours, two Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Coaching Excellence awards, and induction into Volleyball Alberta's Hall of Fame, Thomson has helped shape volleyball in Grande Prairie for more than three decades.

“Ron's contributions to Wolves Athletics extend far beyond his impressive coaching record,” said Dr. Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO. 

“His commitment to mentorship and student success has inspired generations of athletes to believe in their potential. We are proud to celebrate his remarkable legacy and lasting impact in the Peace Region.”

Thomson first joined the Wolves as a student-athlete in 1982, then returned in 1991 to begin an 18-season coaching career with the men's and women's volleyball programs. Under his leadership, Wolves teams earned 12 ACAC medals and five CCAA medals.

“Ron helped establish a culture of excellence in Wolves Volleyball and showed athletes from our region that they could compete with the best,” said James Phillips, NWP Athletics Director. “His influence continues to shape our programs, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to everything he has contributed to Wolves Athletics.”

Thomson remains connected to the program, sharing his experience with the next generation of athletes as he assists Wolves Men's Volleyball Head Coach Lindsey Habib.

Fans are encouraged to pack the Wolf Den on Saturday, November 14, as the Wolves take on the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings and Queens:

• Women's volleyball: 2:00 p.m.
• Men's volleyball: 4:00 p.m.

The celebration continues at 6:00 p.m. with Thomson's Wall of Fame induction event, recognizing his outstanding contributions to Wolves Athletics and the Grande Prairie volleyball community.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the evening event, visit NWP.me/CelebrateRon.