GREENVILLE, S.C., (Dec. 5, 2011) . . . Bob Jones University announced today that it will establish an intercollegiate athletics program. The University has been in talks with the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) and will begin the process of applying to join that association immediately with the goal of participating in a limited schedule in 2012/13 and a full schedule of competition in the 2013/14 academic year.
Initially BJU will compete in two sports—men’s and women’s soccer and men’s and women’s basketball. In time, BJU may consider competing in additional sports.
“There are a number of very positive reasons for introducing intercollegiate athletics into the educational program and student life of BJU at this time,” says Dr. Stephen Jones, president of BJU. We anticipate that intercollegiate athletics will strengthen school spirit among both students and alumni and provide new occasions for alumni and the community to come to campus.
“Intercollegiate competition will also provide a wider athletic venue than we currently offer for biblical instruction about how a Christian should view athletics,” says Dr. Jones, “as well as opportunities for coaching and mentoring student athletes in the importance of using God-given ability for God’s glory and student fans in the importance of demonstrating a Christlike spirit.” And it will provide an opportunity for students and faculty alike to see spiritual truths such as endurance and self-discipline through the metaphor of athletics.
While intercollegiate athletics will undoubtedly become the focal point of BJU athletics, we fully intend to maintain our intramural sports program to enable the majority of students to continue their participation in sports and enjoy the competition among student societies.
BJU’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved intercollegiate athletic participation at its regularly scheduled Board meeting Dec. 2, 2011.
Athletic departments of colleges and universities wishing to schedule competition may obtain additional information regarding BJU’s intercollegiate sports program from Mr. John Matthews at the University (email).