UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. – Saginaw Valley State University men's soccer's Kolja Thomas (Butjadingen, Germany / Zinzendorschule Tossens) was named to the D2CCA (Division II Conference Commissioners Association) All-America Second Team on Tuesday. The honor adds to Thomas' impressive postseason résumé, which already includes D2CCA All-Region First Team recognition and the title of GLIAC Defensive Player of the Year.

Thomas anchored SVSU's dominant back line, which allowed just 12 goals in 18 matches and held opponents to 6.6 shots per game—the top defensive marks in the conference. The senior led the Cardinals with 1,517 minutes played, adding two goals and one assist from his center back position. His defensive consistency, aerial presence, and composure in distribution were central to SVSU's success.

Head coach Louis Barrow said this about Thomas,

"Kolja deserves this award. He has been an incredible player for us this season. He has been a man mountain in defense and kept us at only 12 goals conceded this season.  He is a very selfless player and definitely highlights his team mates as those who have elevated his game and helped him warrant these awards. Kolja has been a joy to coach and definitely left his mark on the program."

Thomas becomes the 13th All-American in program history, earning the 18th All-America honor awarded to SVSU men's soccer.