TACOMA, Wash. (June 13, 2024) University of Puget Sound Head Football Coach Jeff Thomas announced on Tuesday that 43 new students have committed to joining the Loggers this fall, eagerly anticipating their August report date. The overall incoming GPA of the first-year group is over 3.6, with several incoming students joining the University's Business Leadership Program (BLP) as well.
Coach Thomas emphasized, "Our program sets high expectations both on and off the football field. These student-athletes understand the importance of putting the team first, demonstrating strong character, and giving their best effort." Thomas expressed his gratitude, stating, "Our current players play a central role in this process, attracting recruits who share a passion for academics, football, and getting better each day. Our success this year and in the years to come is a direct reflection of the investment our players put into the program. I also want to thank our recruiting staff for their hard work and dedication. Bringing together such a talented and high-caliber group of young men is no accident; It's the result of focused effort and authentic communication."
Mark Athow
6'0 300 OL
Spanaway Lake High School
Area of Study: Exercise Science
Accolades: Dean's List, Presidents List, Chancellor list
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: We love Mark's outstanding run-blocking and pass protection skills, making him a crucial addition to our offensive line. His commitment to academics and physicality will elevate our team's performance.
Trayson Bagley
6'0 285 DL
Highland High School
Area of Study: Biology
Accolades: Idaho 5A All-Conference Honorable Mention
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Trayson's incredible defensive strength and tackling abilities make him an invaluable addition to our defensive line.
Jesus Barraza
6'3 178 K/P
Lincoln High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: Ranked #13th K/P in State
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Jesus brings exceptional kicking skills with a strong leg and accurate aim. His academic aspirations in both engineering and art shows his versatility both on and off the field.
Bobby Best
5,10 161 RB
Pearl City High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: 2024 - Male Athlete of The Year (PCHS), 2024 - MVP (Track & Field), 2024 - All Purpose Player Award (Football), 2023 - [OC16] Impact Player Award (Football)
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Bobby's speed and vision as a running back are impressive, making him a dynamic playmaker. His business interests off the field will be a great fit with our internship opportunities on campus.
Zain Bhakta
6' 185 QB
Huntington Beach High School
Area of Study: Engineering or Business
Coach Thomas' Comments: Zain's leadership and precision as a quarterback make him an exciting addition to our offense. He comes from a very good program in Southern California and we have high hopes for him.
Benjamin Block
6'8 250 OL
Bethel High School
Area of Study: Exercise Science
Accolades: Player of the game against Olympia, 4 year of Cambridge International
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Benjamin, at 6'8", is a towering presence on the offensive line with exceptional blocking ability and quick feet. His interest in exercise science will be a great fit on campus.
Bryson Boyea-Quiton
5'11 170 K/P
Aiea High School
Area of Study: Business and Leadership
Accolades: OIA Long Jump Champion, HHSSA State Long Jump 2nd Place, OIA D1 Football Champions 2021, First Team Kicker All-State
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Bryson's accurate kicking and ability to handle pressure are key assets for our special teams. His strong academic record in business is equally impressive.
Benjamin Bradshaw
5'8 195 LB
Hazen High School
Area of Study: Exercise Science
Accolades: 3x all league Outside linebacker, 1x all league offensive guard
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Benjamin's strength and tackling prowess make him a formidable linebacker. His academic record proves that he will be another excellent addition to our Exercise Science program.
Ben Coulter
5'11 210 LB
Bellarmine Prep (San Jose)
Area of Study: Psychology
Accolades: Billy Smidt Award for football - best player on and off the field - amazing sportsmanship
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Ben's agility and hard-hitting ability as a linebacker make him a valuable defensive asset. He plans to study Psychology here.
Peyton Damasiewicz
5'10 180 LB
Montesano High School
Area of Study: English
Accolades: Washington 1A All State 1st Team LB, League Defensive MVP, top 10 in High School Graduating Class, Graduating with AA
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Peyton's tenacity and tackling skills as a linebacker will greatly enhance our defense. His academic excellence in English highlights his well-rounded character.
Evan Durham
6'0 250 OL
Steilacoom High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Evan's size and strength on the offensive line provide solid protection and run-blocking capabilities. He is going to be one to watch in the year's ahead.
Brady Edwards
6' 1 255 OL
Branham High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: 2022 First Team All-League, 2023 First Team All-League, Back-to-Back League Champions, Chosen for the Charlie Wedemeyer All-Star Game
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Brady's powerful presence on the offensive line ensures a robust blocking front. He joins us from a top ranked program and participated in the prestigious Charlie Wedemeyer All Star Game.
Kanoa Ferreira
5'10 165 WR
Miliani High School
Area of Study: Sports Medicine
Accolades: 3.9 GPA, 2024 Special Teams MVP, Polynesian Bowl Combine MVP, League Open Division Honorable Mention, High School team ranked in the Top 50 Nationally.
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Kanoa's big play ability jumps off the page and look forward to his immediate ability to compete in multiple different places on the field.
Julien Gillen
5'9 275 DL
Owyhee High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: 2x team captain 3x All-Academic
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Julien's quickness and strength on the defensive line make him a key player in disrupting the opposition.
Thomas Goeglein
6' 0" 180 K/P
Cherry Creek High School
Area of Study: Business, Exercise Science
Accolades: 3x Football letter, 3x Track and Field letter, 4x Academic letter
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Thomas's strong leg and consistent kicking ability will be a great asset to our special teams. Thomas is a 2 sport star and will compete in Track and Field here as well.
John Gosser
5'10 255 OL
South Kitsap High School
Area of Study: Japanese
Accolades: SPSL Academic All-League Honors 22/23. SPSL All-League Honorable Mention O-Line 2023. Kitsap Sun All-West Sound High School Football Team 2023.
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: John brings exceptional blocking skills and strong physical presence to our offensive line. He is a local talent coming from South Kitsap High School. Looking forward to big things from him.
Savith Gurunathan
6'1 245 OL
Palo Alto High School
Area of Study: Biology
Accolades: 2 x CCS Champion
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Savith joins us from one of the top athletic and academic schools in California. He chose UPS for its blend of top notch academics and competitive athletics.
Victor Haimovitch-Gore
5'11 205 LB
Mira Mesa High School
Area of Study: Engineering
Accolades: 2x Second Team All-League, 2x Wrestling First Team All-League, 3x Scholar Athlete (Football), 3x Scholar Athlete (Wrestling), 2x League Champion (Wrestling), 2x City Champion (Wrestling), 3x CIF Placer (Wrestling), 3x Masters Qualifier (Wrestling), Symphony Orchestra
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Victor's agility and tackling skills as a linebacker will significantly boost our defense.
Willisione Johnson
5'11 185 RB/FB
Menlo School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: Team Leading rusher, First Team All-League, All-State Honorable Mention, Team Offensive MVP
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Willisione's powerful running style and vision make him a standout addition to our backfield. Willis is the type of guy you love to have around the goal line.
Jaxon Killen
5'10 185 LB
Montrose High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: 4 Year Academic Letterman, 2x First Team All-Conference, All-State Honorable Mention
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Jaxon's relentless pursuit and tackling ability as a linebacker will greatly strengthen our defense. His high school continually competes for a state championship in Colorado every year.
Cade Knutzen
5'10 172 QB
Burlington Edison High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: 4x Honor Roll, Top 20 in class, 2x Football Letterman
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Cade's precision and leadership as a quarterback make him an exciting addition to our offense. His strong academic record speaks volumes about his dedication.
Tevin Larson
6'1 245 DL
Mark Morris High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: 3x Dean's List at Community College
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas Comments: Tevin brings a good balance of size and speed to the defensive line. Look for him in the backfield of opposing teams.
Maxwell Lawson
6'1 200 LB
Hazen High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades:
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas Comments: Max joins high school teammate Ben Bradshaw in the LB group. With his 6'1 frame he will be a formidable force.
Josh Leonard
6' 4" 205 QB
Bellingham High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: 2023 All-Conference Quarterback, Whatcom County Offensive Player of the Year Nominee, Broke 10 Bellingham High School passing records
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Josh's arm strength and accuracy as a quarterback will bring a new dynamic to our offensive strategy. Both parents are Logger alums and are thrilled to bring him into our high powered attack.
Colby Lewis
6'2" 280 OL
Squalicum High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: 2024 First Team All-Conference, 2024 Northwest Athletics Conference Sportsmanship Award Winner, 2022 Second Team All-Conference
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Colby's impressive blocking abilities and physical presence will bolster our offensive line. He is a truly impressive and mobile athlete as an Offensive Lineman and we expect great things from him. His athleticism will allow for him to compete at all 5 OL positions.
Tamaaulelei Ma'alona
5'11 195 DB
O'Dea High School
Area of Study: Kinesiology
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Tama's agility and quick reflexes as a defensive back make him a crucial addition to our secondary. He is another local guy who decided to return home after playing at perennial JUCO powerhouse Mt Sac in Southern California.
Jayden Madison
5'10 160 DB
Archbishop Murphy High School
Area of Study: Business
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Jayden's speed and coverage skills as a defensive back will greatly enhance our defensive unit. He is the definition of a ball hawk.
Cameron Magnussen
5'10 185 LB
Mountain View High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: Team Captain, multiple AP & Honors courses
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Cameron's strength and tackling ability as a linebacker will bring a new level of intensity to our defense.
Austin Mallett
6"0 190 DB
Capital Christian High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: Team Leader (Sacks)
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Austin's quick reflexes and coverage skills as a defensive back make him a valuable addition to our secondary. Led his team in sacks and has the ability to be a game changer in our pressure packages.
Alec Martus
6'2 260 OL
Fairview High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Accolades: 2x All-Conference
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Alec's powerful blocking and strong presence on the offensive line will provide solid protection for our offense. We are thrilled to be bringing one of Colorado's best to Puget Sound.
Fernando Munoz
5'10 195 RB/FB
San Pasqual
Area of Study: Kinesiology
Accolades: Scholar Athlete
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Fernando's agility and vision as a running back make him a dynamic playmaker. His dual focus on kinesiology and business reflects his commitment to excellence.
Zachariah Nayal
5'9 200 LB
Archbishop Mitty High School
Area of Study: Undecided
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Zachariah's strength and tackling skills as a linebacker will greatly enhance our defensive capabilities. Zach is the latest addition from Mitty High School which competes in the toughest conference in Northern California.
Dylan Ott
5'8 175 DB
Hillsboro
Area of Study: Exercise Science
Accolades: Valedictorian, 2nd-Team All-League Safety, Team Defensive MVP 2022 and 2023
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Dylan's quickness and coverage skills as a defensive back will be a strong addition to our secondary. His high GPA showcases his commitment to excellence in all things.
Khaleel Robinson
5'10 187 WR
Lincoln High School (Tacoma)
Area of Study: Business Administration
Accolades: 3.75 GPA
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Khaleel's explosiveness and strong hands as a wide receiver make him a thrilling addition to our offense. He was originally part of the class of 2022 but has returned to the gridiron to join the logger's dynamic passing attack.
Vincent Saldana
5'11 265 OL
Lincoln High School
Area of Study: Marketing
Accolades: 4x Letterman (Football), 2x PCL League Honorable Mention, All-League First Team, State Wrestling, 2x 4.0 GPA (2021, 2022)
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Vincent has wanted to be here for a long time and we are pumped to officially have him join us! His impressive blocking abilities and physical strength will solidify our offensive line. His high academic standards are equally impressive.
Tyler Shankle
5'11" 175 DB
Mountlake Terrace High School
Area of Study: Pre-Med
Accolades: 3x Varsity Football Team Captain, Scholar Athlete, Scholar Athlete Scholarship Recipient
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Tyler was our first commitment of the class and am thrilled to have him on the team. His quick reflexes and coverage skills as a defensive back will greatly enhance our secondary.
Kelly Sio-Fetaui
5'10 230 LB
Lincoln High School
Area of Study:
Accolades: Football 1st Team, DB of the Year
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Kelly is one of the most physical linebackers in the South Sound and we are thrilled he chose to stay close to home with his friends and family in the area. His academic record is just as strong as his athletic resume and we are thrilled to have him here.
Isaak Smith
6'2 175 DB
Archbishop Murphy
Area of Study: Exercise Science
Accolades: Football Team Captain
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Isaak's speed and agility as a defensive back make him a key addition to our defense. He is also very long and expect him to make big plays throughout his career.
Lucas State-Bowman
5'11 185 QB
Westview High School
Area of Study: Psychology
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Lucas's leadership and arm strength as a quarterback will bring a new level of excitement to our offense.
Sullivan Triplett
6'2" 205 LB
Olympia High School
Area of Study: Dual Degree Engineering
Accolades: Was awarded the Ryan Harland Memorial football scholarship. This is an award in honor of Ryan Harlan who played at Olympia High School and passed away. The scholarship is worth $2500 and is only given to one player from Olympia High School each season.
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Sullivan's hard-hitting and tackling ability as a linebacker make him a valuable addition to our defense. Another LB whose big frame will be invaluable.
Gregory Wallace
6'1 215 LB
Hillsboro High School
Area of Study: Business
Accolades: First Team All-League, 4x All-League, Best Lineman Award, Team Dedication Award, Team Captain, 4th in State (Wrestling), Team Captain (Wrestling), National African-American Recognition award, IB Honors, Chancellors Diploma, Dual Language
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: We are excited to have Gregory as a LB in our defense. He has the versatility to play multiple positions and get to the ball with tremendous intensity. His impressive GPA highlights his commitment both on and off the field.
Bryce Waxham
5'11" 260 DL
Lake Stevens High School
Area of Study: Environmental Science
Accolades: Back-to-Back State Champion
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Bryce's strength and agility on the defensive line will make a significant impact on our defense. His outstanding academic record speaks volumes about his dedication.
Dylan White
6'0 205 LB
Lynbrook High School
Area of Study: Pre Engineering
Accolades: 1st Team All-League Catcher (Baseball), Team Captain (Football)
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Dylan is a straight athlete. His high school used him all over the field. His dynamic ability will allow for him to factor in at multiple positions.
Jonah Wilson
5'10 205 RB
Archbishop Murphy
Area of Study: Kinesiology
Accolades: 2nd Team All-League RB, Offensive MVP, NHS, Team Captain
Game Film: HUDL
Coach Thomas' Comments: Another great player joining us from Archbishop Murphy, Jonah is a downhill runner. He is the type of player who opposing teams will have a tough time tackling.
