Azusa Pacific University Athletics

THIS YEAR: Junior Jordan Thoma looks to be a key part in the Cougar secondary ... Has collegiate experience which aids his play ... Known for his hard-hitting and quickness to get to the ball.

2008 (sophomore): Played in 2 games for the Cougars and recorded 2 tackles.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Played 1 season of football for head coach Jeff Jones at Santa Ana (Calif.) College ... Played in 9 games and tallied 10 tackles with a fumble recovery.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 years of varsity football for head coach Lyle Lanstale at Calvary Chapel High in Santa Ana, Calif. ... Played on both sides of the ball as a running back and defensive back ... Received All-CIF and All-Western Conference honors ... During his 2004 senior year, rushed for 880 yards on 148 carries with 8 TDs ... Had 4 games with over 100 yards rushing during the regular season as well as a 68-yard TD run in the Eagles' season opener ... On defense, recorded 41 tackles his senior year as a defensive back ... Also lettered in track & field and wrestling.

PERSONAL: Born on July 31, 1986, in Anaheim, Calif. ... Parents are Bill Thoma (head gymnastics coach) and Sue Silvestri (actress) ... Has one sister (Karissa) ... majoring in applied health ... Wants to be a physicians assistant after he graduates ... His cousin is Jon Thoma, current punter at Ohio State.