NWACC adding track and field, soccer, baseball, softball
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios
NorthWest Arkansas Community College is majorly expanding its athletic program, with plans to amp up intercollegiate sports over the next few years.
Why it matters: Intercollegiate sports are not guaranteed at community colleges. The school's thought-out plans come after a monthslong feasibility study and show a commitment to athletics, Axios learned from Brooke Brewer, athletic director.
State of play: NWACC's newly formed men's and women's track and field teams will begin competing as part of the National Junior College Athletic Association in spring 2025. The teams will start with running events and will expand to field competition in spring 2026. Cross-country coach Josphat Boit will also coach track and field.
- Men's and women's soccer teams will launch in fall 2026.
What to watch: The school will move forward with baseball and softball, pending the success of track and field, and soccer, Brewer said Tuesday during an event at NWACC. A news release from the college states the goal is to add baseball and softball by 2030.
Flashback: NWACC launched intercollegiate cross-country programs for men and women in 2021. Since then, the school has hired Brewer as its first full-time athletic director and announced esports as its second athletic offering.
By the numbers: A $4-per-credit-hour student activity fee took effect last fall, about half of which goes toward athletics, Brewer said. The athletic department will not seek a fee increase through at least 2025, but might ask for one in 2026.
The big picture: The school has also been experimenting with more club sport offerings like flag football, bowling and cycling. NWACC has a track but notably does not have soccer, baseball or softball fields.
- The plan is to use community sports facilities initially. Brewer said she would like see a soccer field built that could also be used for club sports, festivals and community events.