October 18, 2021

Today, Calhoun Community College announced plans to bring back men's and women's basketball as well as add volleyball to the athletic program. Calhoun will begin the process of searching for coaches for both sports right away. Earlier this month, the college conducted a survey to gauge the community's interest in expanding Calhoun athletics. The response was overwhelmingly in favor of basketball and volleyball.

"The survey confirmed what we thought we already knew, but we wanted to be sure we had the community's support before moving forward to expand our athletics. I'm excited about where we're headed. I believe the expansion of our sports programs will help grow the college and have a positive impact on the lives of our students. We also look forward to providing opportunities for athletes in our area, as we will make a commitment to recruit locally," said Calhoun Interim President Dr. Jimmy Hodges.

The survey included input from Calhoun students, employees, foundation, alumni, and the community at large. More than 96% of those surveyed believe athletic programs are important in the college setting and have a positive influence on student success.

Calhoun Athletic Director, Dr. Nancy Keenum said, "It's been a long time coming! This is something I've advocated for since the college suspended athletics in 2001. We have gradually brought back our programs a little at a time. Now, with the reinstatement of basketball and the addition of volleyball, I think we will present more of a collegiate atmosphere and attract new students to attend Calhoun."

Calhoun has received approval from Chancellor Jimmy Baker and the Alabama Community College System. The college will begin recruiting immediately and the new Warhawks basketball and volleyball teams will compete in the fall 2022 season in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Alabama Community College Conference. The basketball program will compete in Division I and the volleyball program will compete in Division II.