BANNER ELK, N.C. – Lees-McRae College Head Men's Lacrosse Coach
John Grant, Jr. announced the hiring of
Channing Thomas to the men's lacrosse coaching staff. Thomas comes to Banner Elk from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where he served as an assistant men's lacrosse coach since July 2022.
"We're thrilled to welcome
Channing Thomas to our coaching staff as the new defensive coordinator," said Grant, Jr. "He will bring a deep knowledge of defensive systems, a strong emphasis on fundamentals, and a proven ability to develop a cohesive high-pressure style of play that will fit our direction at Lees-McRae. Coach Thomas has a clear vision for how we want to defend — with toughness, communication, and discipline — and shares our core values both on and off the field."
Thomas joined the University of Bridgeport men's lacrosse program at the inception of the program and recently finished his third season with the Purple Knights. Thomas served as the defensive coordinator and worked directly with faceoff specialists and goalies for the Knights men's lacrosse program. Bridgeport earned its first tournament bid in 2024 and added its second postseason appearance in 2025. In 2024, Bridgeport led the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference in caused turnovers.
"I am excited to join the Lees-McRae men's lacrosse program and work under the leadership of Head Men's Lacrosse Coach
John Grant, Jr., whose reputation and impact with the lacrosse community are truly distinguished," said Thomas. "I am thankful for this chance to contribute to a program with a strong vision and passion for development both on and off the field. I look forward to bringing my energy, experience, and commitment to the Bobcats as we continue to build something special in Banner Elk."
Prior to Bridgeport, Thomas joined the staff at Averett University where he served as an assistant coach in Danville, Virginia. At Averett, Thomas served as the offensive coordinator, recruiting coordinator, faceoff coordinator, and directed the social media for the Cougar men's lacrosse team.
Thomas started his coaching career at his alma mater Keiser University in West Palm Beach, Florida where his coaching duties included assistant defensive coordinator, faceoff coordinator, and substitution box coach. Keiser ranked third in NAIA at the stoppage of the season in March 2020.
Thomas is a member of the Jamaica Men's National Field and Box Lacrosse Team. He competed for Jamaica in the 2023 World Lacrosse Championship and competed in the 2024 World Lacrosse Box Championship. At Keiser, Thomas earned All-America status twice and was recognized to all-conference four times as a defenseman.
Thomas received his Bachelor's Degree in Sport Management from Keiser University in 2020 and earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Averett University.
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