Southeast Ohio college to add athletics this fall

NELSONVILLE, Ohio (AP) - A small southeast Ohio college is adding athletics to the mix next school year.

The Athens Messenger reports (https://bit.ly/1zrNbn3 ) the Hocking College Board of Trustees has approved a two-year pilot program to add athletics to the college this fall. The Hocking College Hawks will compete in archery, men’s and women’s basketball, cheerleading, football and volleyball.

Hocking College President Betty Young says she’s seen an “overwhelming response” from students and prospective students who are interested in participating.

But some trustees expressed apprehension about financial fallout and potential behavioral concerns. Young says staff members who work on behavioral risk assessment could be utilized to ease such worries.

First year expenses are budgeted at $260,000. Coaches won’t be paid for the first year and will be considered volunteer.

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Information from: The Athens Messenger, https://www.athensmessenger.com/