Source: Chris Clement, Manitoba Bisons Recruiting Coordinator
The University of Manitoba Bisons have added a big name to their 2016 class. OL Tom Clarkson has committed to the program. Tom is a Mission, BC native and was a member of the 2012 recruiting class for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The 6’6″, 290# lineman returns to Canada to pursue graduate studies after completing his degree at UNLV. Tom will be working towards his Master of Arts in Public Administration in order to pursue his goal of entering politics and someday running for public office.
Tom’s father Larry was a longtime professional OL, notably with the BC Lions and the San Francisco 49ers. In signing with Manitoba Tom is also reunited with his brother Matt, who has been with the Bisons since 2014.
“I have known Tom and the Clarkson family since Tom was in grade 10 at Mission Secondary School,” said Brian Dobie, Bison HC. “They are a great football family and we are absolutely honoured to have Tom join our program as he seeks to advance his education and pursue his Master’s of Arts at the University of Manitoba.”
Bison OL Coach Terry Watson sees Clarkson as a great addition to his group. “Tom is in a unique situation. Transferring from a highly competitive NCAA Division 1 program is not something we see everyday. We couldn’t be more excited to add Tom’s experience and skill to our O-line. He will instantly make our group better by adding his leadership and physical play to the mix. Also, the opportunity to play with, and potentially beside, his brother Matt is a great thing for the Clarkson Family.”
“Tom is a major name addition to our program,” said Manitoba’s Recruiting Co-Ordinator Chris Clement. “He brings a pedigree from UNLV and experience at the highest level of college football, and I expect him to be a significant piece of our offense next season.”
Tom’s decision came down to making the best long-term decision for himself “I chose the University of Manitoba because it was the best fit for me academically and athletically.” He is placing a priority on his education while at Manitoba “I’ve always valued academics very highly. So I’m very pleased I will be able to pursue a masters degree while playing football for one of the best programs in Canada. I’m looking forward to getting to Winnipeg this summer and getting to work with my new teammates, coach Dobie and the rest of the coaching staff. Go Bisons!”
Tom is the first Bison recruit to take advantage of the CIS repatriation rule, and he becomes the 16th player in the class of 2016. Manitoba has now signed three offensive linemen and nine players from British Columbia. Tom’s high school highlights are available at http://www.hudl.com/athlete/
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