College of Idaho Reinstates Football Program
The College of Idaho has announced that it will revive its football program, a move that will bring back the only small college football program in the state of Idaho. The school had a football program for more than 60 years before it was disbanded in the late 1970s.
The College of Idaho Board of Trustees approved the reinstatement of the football team at its May 10-11 meeting, and the team is expected to begin play during the fall 2014 season. Talks are underway with the Frontier Conference, where College of Idaho is expected to pursue an application as an association member, competing in football only. The school currently offers 19 men's and women's varsity teams that compete in the Cascade College Conference, which does not offer football, and in the United States Collegiate Ski & Snowboard Association (USCSA) as well as in the NAIA.
"Reinstating the College's football program is an opportunity for us to extend our mission of providing an outstanding liberal arts education," said College of Idaho President Marv Henberg. "There are many high school football players who want to continue playing at the collegiate level while they receive a high-quality education. That is exactly what The College of Idaho offers."
Meetings were held with the College's students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends during the spring semester to gather feedback. Henberg said a variety of factors were weighed by the board in making its final decision, including the impact on student life, alumni engagement, revenue and College-community relations.
The College will launch an intensive fundraising campaign immediately to defray capital expenses and startup costs associated with football.
"We believe that football is going to be a shot of adrenaline for The College of Idaho and for the Treasure Valley," Henberg said. "Football games and the associated activities will bring our students, alumni and staff together in celebration, and offer Treasure Valley residents a new opportunity to watch small college football."
College of Idaho Athletics Director Marty Holly noted that there is a wealth of talented high school football players in Idaho and neighboring states.
"There are many smart, young student-athletes who want to play football and would love a chance to play near their families and get an education that will set them up for a lifetime of success," Holly said. "Our student-athletes thrive in the classroom and in competition, and we're committed to doing the same with football."
