Brantford Bulldogs named Patrick Thomas the eighth captain in franchise history for the 2024-25 season on Friday, October 18, 2024.
Thomas continues an incredible run for Bulldogs captains that has seen all eight in franchise history win OHL Championships.
Thomas, a product of Oakville, was originally drafted by the Bulldogs in the third round, 57th overall out of the Hamilton Huskies program. Thomas made his initial impact in the 2021-22 season. Taking an opportunity out of camp, Thomas earned his way from a fourth line role, up the lineup with six goals and 21 assists for 27 points across 64 games, eventually skating alongside Mason McTavish and Ryan Winterton through the 2022 Playoffs and Memorial Cup, becoming a key cog in the Bulldogs offense.
Taking another step forward in the 2022-23 season, Thomas started the season excelling with Logan Morrison and Avery Hayes before finishing it with Sahil Panwar and Nick Lardis, posting 17 goals and 39 assists for 56 points in 66 games. Clearly becoming a respected leader with the Bulldogs by the start of the 2023-24 season, Thomas wore an “A” and helped lead a dynamic line with Florian Xhekaj and Nick Lardis during the Bulldogs first season in Brantford with 21 goals and 45 assists for 66 points in 57 games.
“I couldn’t be more honoured to name Patrick Thomas as our next Captain. Patty exemplifies everything we look for in a leader, his leadership traits are vast and consistent,” said Jay McKee, Head Coach of the Brantford Bulldogs. “Along with taking pride in his focus and preparation, Patrick brings a consistent, relentless work ethic, which starts every day in practice and carries over into games. We are very proud and grateful to have Patrick lead our team while at the same time being a role model for our players and the future leaders of our organization.”