LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Freshman Jace Thomas, who was named a high school All-American on multiple occasions, has joined the Bellarmine University lacrosse team.

The face-off specialist attended Bountiful High School in Utah, where he was a three-time All-State selection and twice garnered All-America accolades from U.S. Lacrosse. In addition, Thomas was chosen to All-America teams by Under Armour and Adrenaline Lacrosse.

"We're very excited to add Jace Thomas to our team," BU Coach Kevin Burns said. "He was a tremendous player in the state of Utah, earning multiple All-America honors. When he originally visited campus, there was no doubt that he would fit in well here at Bellarmine. I'm excited that circumstances have allowed us the opportunity to coach him for the next four years. He brings a tremendous work ethic, gritty toughness and exceptional skills to the face-off position. Everyone at Bellarmine is happy to have Jace join our family."

Thomas, a native of North Salt Lake, Utah, had a similar feeling about his arrival at BU at the beginning of the spring semester.

"I love the school, there's a great coaching staff and I'm excited to be a part of it," Thomas said. "I've met a few of the guys, and they were great guys. I'm excited to meet the rest of the team. It's going to be fun."

While Bellarmine went 7-5 last season, the Knights struggled in face-offs. Of their 254 chances, they only won 102 for a percentage of 40.2. Thomas hopes to have the opportunity to swing those percentages in favor of the Knights.

"I'm a face-off specialist by trade," he said. "I love to scrap in the face-off and love ground balls."

Bellarmine opens its regular season on Feb. 7 at the University of Michigan. The Knights welcome Ohio State to Owsley B. Frazier Stadium on Feb. 27 in their home opener.

2015 Bellarmine lacrosse schedule