TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (October 20, 2015) - Tallahassee Community College is adding women's cross country to its athletics program and will begin competition in fall 2016.
Cross country will be the fifth sport offered by the Eagles and marks the first addition to the program since 1994-95, when the last of the four current teams - women's basketball - began competition in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).
After it was announced in 1990 the College would reestablish athletics following a two-decade hiatus, men's basketball and baseball made its NJCAA debut in 1991-92 followed by softball a year later. Now, after 21 years, the Eagles are set to grow again.
"Our goal is to develop a year-round athletics program and, by adding women's cross country, we have taken the first step," said TCC President Dr. Jim Murdaugh. "My belief is intercollegiate athletics can serve as a vehicle for enrollment growth not only by an increased number of student-athletes but demonstrating to both current and prospective students a commitment to engagement opportunities through co-curricular activities, which promotes student success."
According to director of athletics Rob Chaney, the sport will add 12 participants.
"Women's cross country is an excellent addition to our already strong program," said Chaney. "It demonstrates the College's commitment to gender equity by providing additional opportunities for female student-athletes, and we have expanded our program into the fall sports season - any way you look at it, it's a win-win."
Chaney also pointed to the popularity and success at the high school level, particularly in TCC's service district of Leon, Gadsden and Wakulla counties, as a determining factor in the College's decision to pursue cross country.
A formal introduction of women's cross country will take place in early November at which time Chaney hopes to introduce a coach.