Introduction

The 1949 Assumption College yearbook, The Ambassador,  features an editorial called “The Story of Freddie Thomas, or The Thomistic Era,” where the author reflects, “Assumption and Windsor could not and would not forget his triumphs, both as an athlete and as a gentleman. The jersey number he wore for four years, No. 22, has been retired from action in tribute to its wearer. Its presence in the trophy case at Assumption will serve as a reminder that this small college was the home of the greatest athlete in Canada’s history.”

The claim of being the “greatest athlete in Canada’s history” may be challenged but Thomas remains one of the greatest athletes to come out of the city of Windsor and the University of Windsor.

While the yearbook editorialist wrote that Assumption and Windsor could not and would not forget his triumphs as “an athlete and as a gentleman,” sadly, the jersey said to be a tribute to its wearer, has not, at time of writing, been located. This digital exhibition is, we hope, a way to remember Fred Thomas and his contributions to our campus and our city.

The yearbook editorial ends with an admonition to “stand up” and pay tribute to our Fred Thomas. Indeed, the time has come for us to celebrate Fred Thomas and his 2024 induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame as a “multisport phenomenon who refused to let prejudice define his potential.”

The Leddy Library congratulates Mr Thomas and his family for this latest induction and for the much-deserved national recognition.

We invite you to learn more about the Fabulous Fred Thomas and his Windsor Years.