Bob Jones University Needs an Intercollegiate Athletic Program

Bob Jones University is known for many things. Inspite of what people think of its legalistic, separatist ideas, it is a very fine academic institution and one where students get an excellent Christ-centered education.

But what would help BJ as far as its reputation both on and off campus would be to have an intercollegiate athletic program. There is a lot of athletic talent up at Bob Jones, particularly in Soccer. there are several colleges within 100 miles that BJU could compete against: Furman, Presbyterian, North Greenville University, USC Upstate, Teccoa Falls College, Montreat College, Erskine College, Lander University and several more.

BJ does have a Soccer All-Star Team that does play other colleges. In fact, they scrimmage Furman every year in Mens' Soccer and are actually very competitive, losing only by a 2-1 margin. Imagine what they could do if they were part of the NCAA, NAIA or NCCAA (National Christian College Athletic Association).

Right now, the school competes on the intramural level with clubs called "Societies", sort of like fraternities at secular schools but, of course, without the things that fraternities are well-known for. This is a good thing. There are many students who aren't god enough to compete at the collegiate level and this is a great opportunity for them to experience friendly, yet fierce competition.

But there are several who could compete at the intercollegiate level and succeed. It would give the school more credibility in the community. It would unite the student body in ways that it hasn't before, and it would be a great witnessing tool to reach out to the players and fans of the other colleges. It would give the university as a whole something to be proud of.

BJ could start one sports team at a time, say Mens' Soccer. I've already mentioned that they have an all-star team that is competitive with NCAA Div. l schools. As far as I know, the school is accredited with SACS so they could join the NCAA or NAIA, and since they're a Christian college, they could join the NCCAA. Once the Mens' Soccer Program is solid, they can add another sport, like Womens' Volleyball or Mens' Basketball. They have fine athletic facilities: a soccer stadium along with several practice fields, a field house for Basketball and Volleyball, and a Swimming gymnasium. They would do very well at the intercollegiate level.

If you are a Bob Jones University alum or current student who reads this blog, put pressure on the administration to bring about intercollegiate athletics a BJU. You'll have lots to cheer about.