UMaine’s Christian Thomas Named First Team All-Conference Linebacker

Graduate student linebacker Christian Thomas of the University of Maine has received significant recognition by being named to the All-Coastal Athletic Association first team. This honor was announced on November 7, 2023, and marks a key achievement in Thomas’s career, highlighting his impressive performance throughout the season.

Thomas recorded 120 tackles during the season, placing him 11th in the program’s history for tackles in a single season. He also led the Black Bears with 12 tackles for loss and was second in sacks with five. His contributions were pivotal in helping the team secure a 6-6 overall record. Notably, he had standout games, including 19 tackles against CAA regular-season champion Rhode Island and 15 tackles against Liberty University.

In addition to Thomas, five other Black Bears received accolades. Graduate student Scott Woods, who transferred from Harvard University, earned a place as the second team punt returner and a third-team wide receiver. He averaged 24.9 yards per punt return, including an impressive 85-yard touchdown return against Elon. As a wide receiver, Woods recorded a team-high 55 catches for 653 yards and five touchdowns.

Additional Honorees from the Black Bears

The second team also featured Anthony Iliano, a sophomore offensive tackle, and Devin Vaught, a sophomore free safety. Iliano was instrumental in the offensive line, contributing to an average of 163.8 rushing yards per game, which ranked fourth in the league. Vaught, the team’s second-leading tackler with 60 tackles, made his mark with three interceptions, placing him second in the CAA.

The third team selections included Sincere Baines, a junior running back, and Elias Sherman, a sophomore defensive tackle. Baines rushed for 709 yards on 122 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per carry, a statistic that ranks second in the CAA and 25th in the Football Championship Subdivision. He also contributed with three rushing touchdowns and a receiving touchdown. Sherman led the team with 5.5 sacks and recorded 48 tackles, showcasing his defensive prowess.

Honorable mentions were awarded to graduate student quarterback Carter Peevy, cornerback Vincent Nwachi, senior kickoff returner Trevin Ewing, and junior cornerback Jamaree Gibson.

Coaching Praise and Team Performance

Thomas’s performance has drawn praise from the coaching staff, with Jordan Stevens, the head coach of UMaine, commenting, “He has been relentless to the ball. He finds a way to get to the ball. He has a tenacity and a passion you can feel when he plays.”

This recognition not only highlights individual talent but also underscores the overall strength of the Black Bears’ football program. With several players earning honors, the future looks promising for the University of Maine as they continue to build on their successes in the coming seasons.