Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

On the front lawn of Reid State Technical College’s Library on Wednesday, May 4, came a first-ever announcement that the college will officially join athletics competition in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC).

Reid State President, Dr. Coretta Boykin, announced that beginning in the fall of 2023, the Reid State Lions will add men’s and women’s golf, men’s basketball, and E-sports, with more additions possible in the future.

Boykin received approval from the NJCAA on Friday, April 15.

“At Reid State, we are committed to students in every way possible to help them achieve, and the ability to bring on athletics provides another avenue for student success. We are thankful to the Alabama Community College System, the Alabama Community College Conference, City of Evergreen, and so many others who made today possible for our college’s future,” Boykin said.

Reid State is partnering with the City of Evergreen to host athletics events at the Evergreen Jr. High School Gymnasium for basketball games. As part of the partnership, Reid State will assist with the cost of repairs and remodeling.

Reid State intends to award 30 scholarships across the programs, 15 of which are for basketball, eight for golf, and seven for E-sports. The scholarships cover books, tuition, and fees.

Recruiting is set to begin immediately with the NJCAA official signing date beginning November 1.

Dean Myrick, Commissioner of the Alabama Community College Conference, praised Reid State’s programs.

“There’s a natural excitement that comes with the announcement of new programs because of the ability to strengthen community ties and enhance the prestige and competitiveness of the Conference. Reid State now has the excellent opportunity that 23 community colleges have to create endless opportunities for its future student-athletes,” Myrick said. “We look forward to what is to come. Go Lions!”

Reid State will compete against various opponents within the Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) and NJCAA.