U of L student Theo Tams first grabbed the attention of the judges, then stole the hearts of a nation.

The psychology/music student captured CTVs 2008 Canadian Idol competition in September, capping a summer-long series of performances that demonstrated his well-rounded, powerful stage presence.

The 23-year-old turned the Idol program into a personal showcase, displaying his penchant for taking some of music's most-known ballads and interpreting them with his unique style.

His victory, on a live national broadcast that attracted more than 1,000 supporters to the University's
1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness, produced a hit

single, "Sing", and netted Tams a recording contract with Sony BMG Canada.

In athletics, a nine-year quest became reality for U of L Pronghorn athlete Jim Steacy when, on a hot summer night in Beijing, he competed for Canada in the finals of the Olympic hammer throw competition.

Just 24, the Canadian record holder and five-time national champion

was the youngest of 12 competitors to qualify, serving notice for what's to come at the London 2012 Games.

"Until you're in that final, you're just another young kid. I'll be on their radar now," Steacy says.

He now focuses on his final season of CIS eligibility and maintaining his unbeaten weight throw record as a Pronghorn.