Humber Polytechnic is proud to announce the newest addition to its nationally recognized athletics program: lacrosse sixes. Beginning in the 2025–26 academic year, the Humber Hawks will officially field lacrosse, expanding the institution's commitment to athletic excellence and student-athlete development.
The decision to add lacrosse reflects the sport's growing popularity worldwide and strong student interest. Lacrosse is one of five new sports set to feature at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, making this an ideal time to add the program.
"We're incredibly excited to add lacrosse to the Humber lineup," said Ray Chateau, Director of Athletics. "This addition represents our ongoing mission to offer diverse and meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes. Lacrosse is fast-paced, strategic, and deeply rooted in Canadian heritage—it's a natural fit for Humber."
Lacrosse boasts a captivating history that spans centuries. The sport's genesis can be traced back to the Indigenous peoples of North America, who played variations of the game as early as the 12th century. These early iterations were more than recreational; they held significant cultural and spiritual importance, often serving as rituals and training for war.
The game's evolution saw it adapt and grow in popularity, with various tribes and communities developing their unique rules and playing styles. With its rich heritage and continuous global expansion, lacrosse remains a symbol of tradition, athleticism and cultural unity, reflecting both its origins and the diverse communities that have embraced it.
"The addition of lacrosse to Humber's athletics offerings reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusive and meaningful student experiences that honour tradition, celebrate diversity, and foster a strong sense of community," said Jason Seright, Vice-President Inclusion, Belonging and Student Experience.
"As a sport with deep cultural significance in Canada, lacrosse brings people together through teamwork, competition, and shared pride. This addition not only enhances the vibrancy of campus life, but also supports student well-being, leadership, and engagement. We are proud to expand our athletics programming in a way that continues to champion student excellence at Humber."
Humber has hired former National Lacrosse League (NLL) player and NCAA Division I standout Tanner Thomson to lead the lacrosse program. A two-time All-BIG EAST selection with Marquette, Thomson led the Golden Eagles with 90 career points in 49 games from 2015-19. He then became the first player in Marquette history to be drafted in the first round of the NLL draft, getting picked 16th overall by the Saskatchewan Rush.
At the conclusion of his playing career, Thomson became the offensive coordinator for the Varsity Blues in 2022 and continues to be the offensive coach for the Mimico Mountaineers Jr. A squad. The Thomson family has long been affiliated with Mimico Lacrosse, a prestigious organization in Etobicoke that dates back to 1890. This relationship will help build a sustainable pipeline of homegrown talent and boost the program's visibility.
Joining the Mohawk Mountaineers, the Hawks will compete against several OUA lacrosse programs beginning in the fall of 2025. Tryouts will take place in late August, with practices being held at Humber North Campus on Mondays and Thursdays.
For more information, please contact Ray Chateau.
