As a dedicated member of the NC varsity boys lacrosse (7-0) family, senior Donte Wagner-Kline (5) joins the growing list of athletes committing to play their sport in college. Wagner-Kline, a long-stick midfielder and defender, announced November 13, 2024, that he intends to continue his lacrosse career at Emmanuel University, a fulfillment of years of dedication to improving his skills. Like his teammates, who also plan on advancing their games on the collegiate level, the young athlete looks positively toward his future, hoping to apply what he learned at NC to his new college field.
Unlike several of his fellow team members, Wagner-Kline’s lacrosse career began during his sophomore year when he decided to try another sport in addition to football. Quickly, he discovered that he enjoyed several aspects of the game; not only could Wagner-Kline use various techniques and skills in unique manners, but he also found a sense of brotherhood with the sport. Wagner-Kline, a young man who appreciates competition, also played for the club team Atlanta South to build upon his training. Now, as a senior, he has found a strong community with everyone involved with the team — from parents and coaches to teammates and supporters.
“What pulled me to the sport was how [lacrosse] was another contact sport; since I played football at the time, I wanted to give it a try because AJ [Auld] told me I can hit people with a stick. What makes me want to keep playing is the competitive atmosphere. Everyone in the sport is very competitive and wants to be the best and I also like the respect from players and the community. Everyone in the sport has a mutual respect for each no matter the outcome of the game, and praises each other’s style of play and performance,” Wagner-Kline said.
As NC varsity boys lacrosse continues to ride the heels of an undefeated season, the team looks excitedly upon their next few games. After their overtime defeat of Marietta High School (4-3) March 5, they own significant momentum heading into the midpoint of the year. During each game thus far, Wagner-Kline has proven his capabilities of collaborating well with his team while similarly boosting morale; through picking up ground balls or honing in on strength he gained from conditioning, he uses his position on the team to help achieve each win.
The compelling aspects of Emmanuel University for Wagner-Kline resided in the comfortability within the team. Similar to his lacrosse home at NC, he felt like a part of a family, where everyone came to practices and games excited to succeed. Due to the intimate size of the team and school, Wagner-Kline could easily foster relationships with his teammates and coaches, so everyone owned a part in the collective future of the group.
“What I’m looking forward to at Emmanuel is to be part of the team and see where the program will become. I picked Emmanuel because of the community and the great people who love to come out and support each other since they are a small school. I like how the team likes to hang out with each other on a daily basis. Another thing was when I was at my prospect camp the whole team came out to watch, help and support the players trying out compared to others where only a few players showed up,” Wagner-Kline said.
The Chant wishes Wagner-Kline success during his time at Emmanuel University and remains proud of all of his accolades thus far. Go Lions!
