Lute Salute Series

TACOMA, Wash. - Pacific Lutheran University senior student-athlete Tristan Thomas is concluding his time on the gridiron, a career that has seen the Woodland, Washington make a big impact both on the field and the locker room. 
 

Hometown: Woodland, Wash.

Career Highlights: HM All-NWC in 2019 83 Career Tackles 15 TFLs

Thomas's favorite memories from his time as a student athlete at PLU were made spending time with his teammates at the Breakaway program and at away games. He is grateful for the lifelong friendships he has built with his teammates and the leadership he has been taught by his coaches. 
 
"They [teammates and coaches] have had a massive impact on my life, and have taught me countless lessons on how to be a better player, teammate, and friend," Thomas said. 
 
On the field, Thomas has appeared in 24 games over the past four seasons, racking up 83 tackles, including 15 TFLs and 6.5 sacks. Thomas has played in every game over the past three seasons and was named Honorable Mention All-Northwest Conference as a defensive end at the conclusion of the 2019 campaign. 
 
"Tristan Thomas's leadership stems out of always being up for a challenge. He doesn't run from adversity," said Head Coach Brant McAdams. 
 
"He can be a demanding presence or the first to crack a joke and get guys laughing.  He's not afraid to step into conflict when it's meant to elevate the team or the people around him and he's the first to take responsibility and hold up his end of the relationship."
 
Thomas believes his experience with Lute football has taught him how to persevere through challenges and manage his time. 
 
Thomas will graduate with a degree in Sociology and plans to become an officer for the Tacoma Police Department.