Hill College receives grant from the National Junior College Athletic Association Foundation to establish inaugural wrestling program for both men and women
Hill College is thrilled to announce that it is a recipient of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) 2026 Sport Opportunity grant, a two-thousand-dollar award providing funding for the addition of men’s and women’s wrestling teams to the college’s growing athletics program. Since 2018, the NJCAA Foundation has provided funding to support the addition, growth, and sustainment of NJCAA sports programs at the community college level.
“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 inaugural wrestling season at Hill College is set for fall of 2027, extending into spring 2028. Scholarship opportunities will be available beginning November 2026.
Wrestling will become the eighth organized sport at Hill College, adding the 14th and 15th teams to the athletics program.
The athletics program provides opportunities for Hill College student-athletes to build leadership skills and participate in local, state, and national competitions. Sports promote a sense of belonging and are an essential component of college pride and campus life.
This addition to the athletics program will establish Hill College as one of the first community college wrestling programs in the state. It is the fastest growing intercollegiate team sport in the country and will support enrollment and programmatic growth, furthering the college’s mission to be a beacon of excellence in both academics and athletics and generate funding and recruitment opportunities.
“Wrestling student athletes will compete in both dual and tournament competitions with other NJCAA community colleges, primarily from Texas and Oklahoma as well as a few community colleges from Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri,” said Dean of Students & Athletics Randy Graves.
The Hill College Wrestling Center will be located in what is the current Student Center at the Hill County Campus (HCC), which is undergoing renovation. The new center will include a state-of-the-art gym, locker rooms, offices for coaches, as well as a three-mat practice and two-mat competition facility with stands for spectators.
Former head wrestling coach at Grapevine High School Scott Tischer is set to head up the wrestling program at Hill College, pending board approval. Tischer has led teams to multiple state championships and was recently named Region 2-5A Coach of the Year.
“Launching an NJCAA Division I Region V wrestling program is a historic moment for our college and for collegiate athletics in Texas. As the second Division I junior college wrestling program in the state, we are creating new opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the highest level while earning a quality education close to home. This program reflects our commitment to student success, expanding opportunities, and serving as a beacon of excellence,” said Hill College President Dr. Thomas Mills.
About NJCAA Foundation
The NJCAA Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization that has funded scholarships, community programs, and national awards for the association’s student-athletes, member colleges, and administrators since 2018. 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.
About Hill College
Hill College, founded in 1923, is a comprehensive community college with three locations in Hillsboro, Cleburne, and Burleson, Texas, and a significant online presence. The college offers a diverse array of academic programs, including associate degrees, technical certifications, and job training. Hill College is committed to being a beacon of excellence in teaching, learning, and innovation. By creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, the college prepares students for success in an ever-evolving world. With a focus on accessible education, student-centered services, and community engagement, Hill College plays a crucial role in enhancing the educational and economic vitality of the region.