Lakehead University Announces 2025 Athletics Wall of Fame Inductees

Lakehead University Announces 2025 Athletics Wall of Fame Inductees

Thunder Bay, ON – Lakehead University Athletics is proud to announce the 2025 class of the Athletics Wall of Fame, celebrating the extraordinary contributions of athletes, teams, and builders who have shaped the Thunderwolves’ legacy. This year’s inductees span men’s hockey, men’s basketball, women’s volleyball, and include visionaries whose dedication helped build Lakehead’s athletic programs.

The celebrations will take place during Homecoming weekend, offering fans and alumni an opportunity to honour these outstanding individuals:

• Friday, October 3, 2025 – 7:00 PM | Thunderwolves men’s hockey season opener at The Gardens, featuring an on-ice introduction of the inductees.
• Saturday, October 4, 2025 – 11:30 AM | Official Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony at The Hangar, Lakehead University.

Men’s Hockey – Individual Athletes

Erik Lodge – A steady presence on the blue line, Lodge combined strong defensive instincts with offensive contributions, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the Thunderwolves program. His leadership and hockey IQ set the tone for teammates on and off the ice.

Chris Whitley – One of the most decorated goaltenders in program history, Whitley anchored Lakehead during some of its most successful seasons. A two-time OUA All-Star, his composure and timely saves earned national recognition.

Dan Speer – A dynamic forward with a scoring touch, Speer excelled on the power play and left his mark on Lakehead’s offensive record books. Known for elevating his play in crucial moments, he became a fan favourite and went on to play professionally in Europe.

Andrew Brown – Brown combined grit, intelligence, and physicality to make a lasting impact. He became the first Lakehead player to receive the prestigious Randy Gregg Award, honouring excellence in athletics, academics, and community service.

Mitch Maunu – Drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2004, Maunu was a relentless competitor for the Thunderwolves. Best known for his defensive reliability, shot-blocking, and tireless work ethic, he later transitioned into coaching, where he continues to mentor young players.

Tobias Whelan – A creative playmaker, Whelan brought vision and poise to the Thunderwolves’ offense. His ability to control the pace of play and contribute in all areas of the ice made him a respected leader.

Jordan Smith – A rugged defenseman, Smith’s hard-nosed style defined his time at Lakehead from 2005–2010. Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2004, he has gone on to a successful coaching career and currently serves as an assistant coach with the Abbotsford Canucks (AHL).

Andrew Wilkins – As captain in his final year, Wilkins was known for his tenacity and leadership. He later became head coach of the Thunderwolves in 2018–19, where his influence on culture, recruiting, and player development has been profound.

Mike Jacobsen – A mobile, offensive-minded defenseman from Kakabeka Falls, Jacobsen was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 1999. He tallied over 60 points from the back end in OUA play, providing rare scoring from defense.

Shandor Alphonso – After his Thunderwolves career, Alphonso went on to become an NHL linesman in 2014. He has since officiated over 660 regular-season games and 37 playoff contests at the game’s highest level.

Bryan Duce – A powerful forward from Thunder Bay, Duce built on a successful OHL career before joining Lakehead. He contributed back-to-back productive seasons and later remained involved in the Thunderwolves program, supporting its continued growth.

Chris Shaffer – From Dryden, Ontario, Shaffer was a dependable forward known for his scoring touch. His senior season saw him post 14 goals and 31 points before continuing his career professionally with the Laredo Bucks of the Central Hockey League.

Grant McCune – A goaltender from Edmonton, Alberta, McCune provided stability in net for Lakehead from 2002–2004. His WHL experience with the Prince Albert Raiders gave him the foundation to succeed in Thunder Bay.

Murray Magill – A forward from Thunder Bay, Magill combined size, strength, and determination to become a steady contributor. Following his playing career, he gave back to the program as an assistant coach.

Mike Wehrstedt – Known for his physical play and leadership, Wehrstedt brought toughness and consistency to Lakehead from 2002–2006. His OHL background with Kitchener and Mississauga prepared him well for his Thunderwolves career.

Mark Soares – A speedy forward from Burnaby, British Columbia, Soares made his mark with quickness and offensive spark. After his Thunderwolves career, he pursued a degree in business administration and transitioned successfully into the business world.

Men’s Basketball – Individual Athletes

Dan Zapior – A prolific scorer and steady leader, Zapior elevated the Thunderwolves’ competitive level. Tallying an impressive 1362 career points, his ability to produce offensively while inspiring teammates made him an essential figure in the program’s development.

Greg Carter – Carter’s versatility and consistent play were hallmarks of his Lakehead career. A reliable performer at both ends of the court, he was instrumental in the team’s success throughout his tenure leading to both OUA & CIS Defensive Player of the Year titles.

Ryan Thomson – Thomson’s impact extended beyond the box score. Selected for to the OUA West All Rookie and OUA West First Team All-Star throughout his time with the Thunderwolves, Ryan was a skilled contributor on the court and a culture-builder off of it.  He played a vital role in shaping the identity and growth of Thunderwolves basketball.

Team Category

1993–94 Nor’Westers Women’s Volleyball Team
This trailblazing group achieved remarkable success through teamwork, dedication, and excellence on the court. Their accomplishments set a new standard for Lakehead volleyball with an OUA West division title and Bronze Medal at the OWIAA Championships and remain an enduring part of the program’s proud history.

Builder Category

Thunderwolves Men’s Hockey Founding Collective
The visionaries, partners, and investors behind the creation of Lakehead’s men’s hockey program made an extraordinary impact on the university’s athletic landscape. Their leadership and commitment laid the foundation for a program that continues to develop exceptional athletes and enrich the university community.