Wilbur Wright College awarded NJCAA Foundation Sport Opportunity Grant to enhance its Men’s Soccer program

CHICAGO— (June 12, 2026) – Wilbur Wright College is proud to announce it has been awarded a $2,000 Sport Opportunity Grant from the NJCAA Foundation to enhance the development of a men’s soccer program.

The grant will provide critical funding to further support the men’s soccer program, including equipment, training resources, and operational support as the team prepares for its new season.

“We are thankful to have the additional funds that support men’s soccer here at Wilbur Wright College,” said Director Gabriel Billings of Intercollegiate and Intramural Athletics. “This grant from the NJCAA Foundation allows us to continue to compete and grow—their support is vital because athletics play a role in student engagement, leadership development, and building a strong campus community.”

“Wilbur Wright College is committed to offering well-rounded educational experiences and the generous grant from NJCAA allows us to continue supporting student success through athletics in higher education,” said President Andres A. Oroz, Wilbur Wright College.

“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.”

Wilbur Wright College has been a past leader in athletics and is the place where Synchronized Swimming was founded in May 1939—hosting the first U.S. synchronized swimming competition. In 2013, the Wilbur Wright Athletic Hall of Fame was established and honors former athletes for outstanding achievements that span the decades.

As a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association, Wilbur Wright College joins a national network committed to providing student-athletes with opportunities to excel academically and athletically.  The NJCAA and its Foundation are instrumental in supporting programs that broaden access and strengthen communities through sport.

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About City Colleges of Chicago

As the city’s most accessible higher education engine of socioeconomic mobility and racial equity, City Colleges of Chicago catalyzes our students’ capacity to prosper and take part in building a stronger and more just Chicago.

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: Veronica Resa, City Colleges of Chicago, (e) vresa1@ccc.edu