On Oct. 11, senior Thomas Koenke announced his commitment to play lacrosse at Johnson & Wales University via Instagram.
Koenke started his lacrosse journey when he was in second grade. Growing up he played for 3D Garden State, surrounded by close friends, which grew his love for the game and pushed him to grow as a player. During his freshman year, Koenke made the switch to Riot Lacrosse club to bring his game to the next level and prepare for high school.
Johnson & Wales University is located in Providence, RI. The location of the school is lively, with restaurants, shopping and parks surrounding the campus. “I was looking for a school that was big but also wasn’t isolated or felt too far removed from things to do,” Koenke said.
Johnson and Wales is a part of the NCAA Division III and competes in the Conference of New England. Some of Johnson & Wales conference rivals include the University of New England, Endicott College and University of Hartford. During the 2025-2026 season, Johnson & Wales men’s lacrosse team finished with a 4-5 conference record and a 7-9 overall record.
When Koenke attends the university, he plans to be a part of the business administration program. He is eager to arrive and help contribute to his future team’s success, but also sad to leave WHS and the memories he has made in the program. “The biggest thing I’ll miss about the lacrosse program is playing with my best friends. I’ve been with them since elementary school and have grown such a tight bond that playing without them will feel different,” he said.
2026-2027 senior captain Harrison Rekemeier highlighted Koenke’s energy and enthusiasm he brings to the team. “I’ve been playing lacrosse with Thomas for as long as I can remember and it doesn’t matter where or when, he’ll always have the most energy and be the loudest on the field,” he said.
Although Koenke will miss being a part of the WHS lacrosse program, he will undoubtedly have a smooth transition into Johnson and Wales University and cannot wait to meet his future teammates.
