News Archives: Tom Pura, Distinguished Volunteer
Friday, March 28th, 2014
The Distinguished Volunteer Award, presented in recognition of exceptional contributions of time and energy dedicated to the advancement of Grande Prairie Regional College, was presented in March 2014 to Tom Pura.
Former radio sports director "Big Paul" Thomas - also known as Tom Pura -attended and reported on Wolves games and activities for years. Tom provided extensive coverage of the Wolves programs and players – and according to Athletic Director Francois Fournier it was during his time at Big County Radio that GPRC Wolves Athletics received more media coverage than any other program in Alberta, and very possibly in Canada.
It was during the five year run that GPRC hosted CCAA Nationals from 1998 – 2002 that Tom got involved as a volunteer as one of the best game announcers in our College’s history. Not only does Tom have a great voice, he knew how to excite the crowd and he created an environment that sparked some of the best varsity Volleyball ever.
Through his many years as a radio sports reporter and as one of the game announcers Tom became the Voice of the Wolves. More recently, Tom volunteers his expertise as the Emcee for the annual Wolves Festival of Gold event, where we honor the athletic and academic achievements of our Wolves teams and players. Tom performs this role in such an outstanding manner that he has been given the Festival of Gold Emcee role for as long as he wants it.
