New Oxford’s Thomas Haugh Shines Ahead of Final Four Showdown

NEW OXFORD, Pa. (WGAL) — New Oxford native Thomas Haugh is realizing his lifelong dream as a key contributor for the Florida Gators basketball team, which is set to compete in the Final Four on Saturday against Auburn. Haugh scored 20 points in the Gators’ Elite Eight victory over Texas Tech, solidifying his role on a team that many have dubbed a contender for the national championship.

Haugh’s journey to Gainesville has been unique, as he grew up in a community dominated by Penn State fandom, yet developed a passion for the blue and orange of Florida. “It’s been a wild ride with how he ended up becoming a Gator fan and where he’s at now,” said his father, Ryan Haugh. “This team has been unbelievable to watch. Just how they play together and to have Tommy be a part of it has been great.”

The support from his hometown is palpable, as the spirit surrounding Haugh’s success resonates throughout the Conewago Valley School District where his mother, Jennifer, teaches. “My little ones will come to school, and they’ll talk about the games and how they sat and watched them,” she said. “Today they had a district-wide school spirit day, and then they leave school, and there is an ice cream flavor at the local ice cream shop inspired by him. The way that a small town rallies around one of their own — I have tears all the time.”

Jennifer Haugh emphasized the importance of Haugh setting an example for young athletes. “When you’re given gifts like the ability you have to be on this stage, you need to use those gifts in a positive way and be a role model for others,” she noted. “It’s amazing to see a kid grow up and accomplish so much, especially at such a young age.”

With the pressure of the upcoming Final Four, Haugh remains focused. “He said at the beginning of last year, ‘I’m 18 and I get to pick a new dream because I’m living mine,'” said Ryan Haugh. As the Gators prepare for their matchup against Auburn, the eyes of New Oxford will undoubtedly be fixed on their homegrown star.