Catherine taking her media day picture. (Photo Courtesy Dean Athletics)
Going into her senior year at Dean College, Catherine Thomas has been preparing for her final season at Dean College. I was able to speak to Thomas at media day last week about her time at Dean College, her senior year, and her long journey on and off the court.
Over the summer, Thomas played in a summer league basketball tournament back home in Connecticut. Thomas also worked out over the summer in the gym, watched film to improve her game, and spent time with her family and friends.
Growing up in Connecticut, Thomas fell in love with the game of basketball at an early age. Thomas played in basketball leagues, and summer leagues during her summers as a child.
Thomas played for her high school girls' basketball team. In her sophomore year, she tore her Anterior Cruciate Ligament and had to go to physical therapy. During this tough time, Thomas lost her confidence and thought she would never play basketball ever again. However, with her mother guiding her through this challenging time, she overcame the doubters and got back on track.
After fully recovering from her injury, Thomas was nervous while running up and down the court in fear of another injury. However, she would overcome this by playing her game and focusing on the good and not the bad.
Going into her freshman year at Dean College, the basketball season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the spring semester when students were allowed back on campus, Thomas played basketball at Fletcher Park with her teammates and other people at the court.
In her sophomore year, Thomas had a great season for the Bulldogs by earning the Most Valuable Player award. In her junior year, Thomas was named team captain and won the sportsmanship award, as well as her second straight Most Valuable Player award.
The number one person Thomas looks up to the most is her mother. “My biggest impression is my mother because all she does for me, motivates me, and loves me. She is the reason I still love the game of basketball", Thomas explained.
As for academics, Catherine is a pre-law major and after college, she wants to work in law. For her senior season, Thomas not only wants to win, but lead by example for her teammates.