May 19, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Grand Rapids Community College’s inaugural soccer program will get a boost from a Sport Opportunity Grant provided by the National Junior College Athletic Association Foundation supporting student athletes.
GRCC was awarded a $2,000 grant, which will support scholarships for student-athletes.
GRCC’s men’s and women’s soccer programs launch in the fall. Lizzy Hornack, a two-time All-American at Davenport University, and Damiekco Smith, who has ties to the University of Michigan-Flint program, will guide the new GRCC teams.
“We’re not just fielding teams, we’re building a program and a culture at GRCC,” Athletic Director Lauren Ferullo said. “Athletic programs provide fantastic opportunities for students, providing lessons and experiences that will help students for the rest of their lives. Scholarship assistance, in some cases, helps these students have access to college and athletics. We deeply appreciate the NJCAA Foundation’s support for our students and programs.”
Ferullo said the soccer program was needed to meet a growing interest in the sport. Soccer is currently the most asked about sport from prospective student-athletes when they visit campus.
“Two-year collegiate sports provide student-athletes with the opportunity to further both their athletic and academic careers,” said Brian Luckett, NJCAA Foundation executive director. “The NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant affords the NJCAA Foundation a pathway to continue supporting student-athletes and the member colleges who provide them with these incredible opportunities while also promoting continued growth and development throughout the organization.”
About the NJCAA Foundation
The mission of the NJCAA Foundation is to enhance the NJCAA national organization, student-athletes, member colleges and local communities through financial support, scholarships, program initiatives and community service.