FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Northeastern Junior College Announces Addition of Beach Volleyball for 2026–2027 Academic Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: June 12 2026

Northeastern Junior College Announces Addition of Beach Volleyball for 2026–2027 Academic Year

STERLING, Colo. — Northeastern Junior College (NJC) is proud to announce the addition of women's beach volleyball beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, expanding its intercollegiate athletic offerings and creating new opportunities for student-athletes.

The newly established program will practice and compete at a sand volleyball court currently under construction at Prairie Park. The project is made possible through a collaborative partnership between the NJC Foundation and the City of Sterling, as well as financial support from the NJCAA Foundation through its Sport Opportunity Grant.

The addition of beach volleyball reflects NJC's continued commitment to providing a well-rounded collegiate experience. Athletics play a critical role in higher education by fostering leadership, teamwork, academic success, and personal growth among student athletes. As a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), Northeastern Junior College remains dedicated to offering competitive opportunities that prepare students both on and off the court.

"The expansion of our athletic programs is an exciting step for Northeastern Junior College," said Eddie Trenkle, NJC Athletic Director. "Beach volleyball is one of the fastest-growing collegiate sports in the country, and we are thrilled to bring it to NJC. This program will complement our existing sports offerings and provide new avenues for student athletes to compete and succeed. We are especially grateful for the partnership with the NJC Foundation, the City of Sterling, and the NJCAA Foundation in making this vision a reality."

"The NJCAA Foundation is excited to further support the growth of NJCAA member colleges and the sport programs they offer through the NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant," said Andrew Givens, NJCAA Foundation Executive Director. "The ability to provide this funding 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."

The construction of the new sand volleyball facility at Prairie Park symbolizes a strong community collaboration and shared investment in student success. Once completed, the venue will serve both NJC student-athletes and the broader Sterling community, enhancing recreational and competitive opportunities in the region.

Northeastern Junior College continues to recognize the essential role the NJCAA plays in higher education by offering accessible, competitive, and transformative athletic experiences. The addition of beach volleyball highlights NJC's mission to cultivate opportunity, engagement, and excellence for all students.

About 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.

Media Contact:

Northeastern Junior College

Office of Athletics