Sports

GGC Grizzlies to Take the Field in 2012

Georgia Gwinnett College announced plans to bring competitive sports to campus.

may soon have another reason to cheer. GGC's president Daniel Kaufman announced plans for the college to compete in six intercollegiate sports beginning in the 2012-2013 academic year.

“We are pleased to offer intercollegiate athletics to our students, as it represents another milestone in our brief history," said Kaufman in a release. "Varsity sports will enhance the college’s vision of a fully integrated educational experience. Students who are engaged in college stay in college, and this new level of athletics will provide even more incentive for students to get involved, stay in school and graduate.”

The Lawrenceville school plans to introduce men’s baseball, men’s soccer, men’s tennis, women’s soccer, women’s softball and women’s tennis  in 2012. The following year GGC they hope to add men’s basketball, women’s basketball and women’s volleyball.

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GGC students and the Georgia Board of Regents previously approved an athletic fee to help fund the sports teams. Additional funding will come from private sources.

A director of athletics will be hired this year to begin building the program and hire coaches and staff.

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Construction of fields and courts could begin as soon as this summer. The money will come from the previously approved athletics fee.

GGC said they plan to apply for membership and competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)

“I am delighted that we are creating a unique, integrated athletics program at GGC,” said Tomas Jimenez, dean of students and chair of the task force. “It will enrich the educational experience, build excitement and enhance our campus spirit.” 

“I can think of no better place to build an intercollegiate athletics program than in Gwinnett," said Kaufman. "This region has the resources, the interest and the enthusiasm to support and champion a collegiate program. We look forward to many years of hearing our students, friends and neighbors cheer, ‘go Grizzlies!’”


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