Josiah Tong went from elite badminton in Canada to a key player on Rhode Island’s golf team after the COVID-19 pandemic led him to pick up the sport. A late start to recruiting and a 42-hour drive from home didn’t keep him from choosing URI, where he found the competitive team, campus experience and coaching he wanted. Now a four-year lineup regular and team captain, Tong has helped the Rams reach national postseason play in consecutive seasons while balancing golf, academics and life far from family.

By the Numbers
  • Tong improved from shooting 102 in his first golf tournament to even par by the end of that summer.
  • URI has won 11 team titles in 39 tournaments during Tong’s career.
  • The Rams finished third at last season’s National Golf Invitational.
  • The drive from Tong’s home near Calgary to campus takes about 42 hours.
Yes, But

Tong’s rapid progress and athletic background helped him adapt to golf, but his recruiting process started late, and his home in western Canada was far from the usual college recruiting spotlight. Choosing URI also meant a major distance from family, with travel costs and time making visits difficult.

Bottom Line

Tong’s path to Rhode Island was anything but direct, but his willingness to take a risk helped him find a home in a program where he has become a leader—and helped the Rams keep winning.