Football Scholarship

In 2023, Craig Thompson established the Eastmure Thompson Wealth Advisory Football Scholarship to support the next generation of student athletes. He describes his years on the varsity football team at Queen’s University as “among the most rewarding and formative of my life.”

To help foster continuing rewarding experiences for university level players, Craig built on his relationship with the Guelph Gryphon coaching staff, including a former teammate and coach. “Both of these individuals had a profound and positive impact on my life, and I am confident that their current coaching staff will have a similar influence on any player who is awarded this scholarship,” he says.

Each year, the scholarship is awarded to a student-athlete on the Guelph University Varsity Football Team with extraordinary athletic, academic, and leadership qualities, with preference given to a player from the region of Hamilton, Ontario.

This year’s recipients are Daniel Hocevar, a fifth-year Offensive Lineman from Hamilton, and Max Barber, who plays Defensive Line.

A celebration of character and work ethic—on and off the field

Daniel Hocevar, who was also awarded the scholarship in 2024, is majoring in Sport and Event Management at the University of Guelph.

“After five great years with Gryphon football, I am now focused on getting my post football career under way. I am forever grateful for the support and opportunities I have been given throughout my football journey, and look forward to what is next,” he says.

Max Barber is a third-year Management Economics student from Hamilton. "Because of Craig’s generosity, I’m able to use my full attention on improving as a football player and a student athlete,” he says. “It’s helped create the person I am today and I couldn’t be more thankful."

Craig Thompson is proud to support these young athletes as they work hard to achieve their athletic and academic goals: “I’m truly honoured to support these two outstanding student-athletes as they pursue their dreams on and off the field. Their dedication, resilience, and talent are an inspiration. Congratulations Max and Dan on earning this opportunity through your hard work.”

Previous recipients

This is the third year the Eastmure Thompson Wealth Advisory Football Scholarship has been awarded.

On November 27, 2023, Craig presented the first scholarship to Jack Cobb, a Guelph Gryphons linebacker who was in his second year at the University of Guelph, pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce. “Playing for the Gryphons so far has been an absolute honour,” said Jack. “The coaching I have received over the last two years has been outstanding.”

In 2024, the second scholarship was awarded to Offensive Lineman Daniel Hocevar and Linebacker Denver Beazley. “I am beyond grateful for all the support and opportunities I have been given throughout the years and look forward to an exciting year," said Daniel.

Denver was equally appreciative: “I'm very thankful for the support from the school, my coaches, and Eastmure Thompson Wealth Advisory, which allows me to reach my full potential.”