North Ark Gets Association Approval to Add Soccer

Soccer is a go at North Arkansas College for this fall.

Full Press Release below from NAC:

North Arkansas College (NAC) Pioneer soccer as an offering is now official after the NJCAA Foundation awarded the college a $2,000 grant to add men’s and women’s soccer teams through the newly created NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant.

Beginning in the fall of 2022, NAC will compete in the Division II level for NJCAA Region 2. The first men’s and women’s games are set for Saturday, August 20, 2022, at Neosho Community College (KS).

“We’re recruiting students from our local high schools and have held several signings,” said Rick Massengale, NAC president. “Until now, those athletes didn’t have a chance to play at a collegiate level and we want them to have the opportunity. Pioneer sports fans have requested soccer for many years and now is the perfect time to bring it forward.”

NAC recently added intramurals, esports and a residence hall. “Student life is important,” said Bobby Howard, NAC athletic director. “Our students deserve to have as many opportunities as we can provide so they can have a complete college experience, inside and outside of class.  We want them to meet new people, be part of a team and make memories during their time as a Pioneer.”  

The NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant was established in October 2021. “The NJCAA Foundation is excited to further support the growth of NJCAA member colleges and the sport programs they offer through the newly created NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant,” said Brian Luckett, NJCAA Foundation Executive Director. “The ability to provide this funding for the first time ever is a testament to the importance and growth of two-year collegiate athletics. The NJCAA Foundation looks forward to this initiative’s impact as NJCAA member colleges continue to create opportunities for student-athletes across the country.” 

Anyone interested in becoming a Pioneer soccer player may contact soccer Coach Samuel Hughes at samuel.hughes@northark.edu or by phone at (870) 391-3278.