NCMC becomes the 22nd member of the state sports association for two-year colleges.

North Central Michigan College has joined the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA), the state sports association for two-year colleges.  Membership will guarantee North Central a competitive schedule of home and away games against other Michigan community colleges beginning in Fall 2022.

The MCCAA voted to accept North Central as its 22nd member institution during a legislative meeting held today, December 13.  The Timberwolves will sponsor six teams: men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s cross country, volleyball, and esports.  In addition to guaranteeing the college several home games, membership also means that Timberwolf student-athletes will be eligible to receive MCCAA conference awards and recognition.

“MCCAA membership is the next step toward bringing our athletic program to scale at the varsity level,” said Athletic Director Ashley Antonishen.  “This is exciting for our community and a great opportunity for student-athletes locally and statewide who can now continue playing the sport they love while receiving an exceptional North Central education.”

Founded in 1926 to promote sports among junior colleges, the MCCAA is comprised of 21 Michigan colleges and one northern Indiana college.  The conference is divided into two divisions, Eastern and Western, but is in the process of redistricting.  North Central won’t know which colleges will be in its division until the redistricting process is complete, Antonishen said. 

Most MCCAA colleges are located in mid-Michigan or south.  Alpena Community College, which also sponsors men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, and volleyball, is nearest to Petoskey.

North Central launched its club sports program in 2019.  Initial offerings included cross country, esports, and downhill ski racing.  The college was granted membership in the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Region 12, Division II in October 2021.

Antonishen and her coaching staff are currently recruiting varsity athletes in all six sports. 

For more information about the North Central’s athletic program, visit www.ncmich.edu/athletics.

For more information:
Megan Van Horn
Content Media Administrator
231-439-6399