By Nolan Kowal, Sport Performance Specialist
We are back with another KidSport Manitoba Q & A! This week we’re talking with Thomas Miles, linebacker for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and 2019 Grey Cup Champion. Read on to learn about Thomas and his strong work ethic.
What sports did you play growing up?
Hockey, soccer, and football. Hockey was my priority until grade 10, then football took over.
What is your favourite sport moment from your career?
Winning the Grey Cup with the Blue Bombers in 2019!
How has sport shaped your life?
Sport, and football in particular, has instilled in me a number of positive characteristics: a strong work ethic, the ability to handle pressure, and a comprehensive understanding of effective teamwork.
If you weren’t currently playing your sport what would you have done/be doing?
The 2020 CFL season was cancelled, so I switched from part-time student to full-time at the University of Manitoba.
What is something you would tell your younger self before you got into your sport?
Enjoy it. Time flies!
What advice would you give to kids who are new to your sport?
If you want to play elite-level football, you have to make it a priority in every area of your life.
What is the biggest goal you have achieved in your career?
Winning the 2019 Grey Cup!
How did your amateur career prepare you for your professional career?
University football was a critical time for my development as a football player and enabled me to transition smoothly to the professional ranks once I was drafted.
Who has inspired you throughout your career?
When I was in high school, I tried to model my game after Barrin Simpson, a linebacker for the Blue Bombers. In the CFL, I’ve gotten great joy out of playing in front of my parents.
Why did you get involved with KidSport?
I believe in KidSport’s mission to get more kids active and engaged in sport, and I wanted to help out however I could.
Why is KidSport so valuable to Canadian communities?
Because all kids have a right to play – there should be no financial barriers to sport.
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Thomas and his experience within sport. We are looking forward to working with him in the future, and think he is an excellent role model for our community. Thomas has previously helped out at the Doug Brown Football Camp in support of KidSport Winnipeg, and we are excited to have him on our KidSport Manitoba team! Stay tuned for more updates from KidSport Manitoba.
About KidSport Manitoba
KidSport is a national charity administered in Manitoba by Sport Manitoba which provides support to children in order to remove financial barriers that prevent them from playing organized sport. KidSport believes that no kid should be left on the sidelines and all should be given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports.
For more information about KidSport Manitoba, please visit our website.
