MIDDLESEX COLLEGE AWARDED NJCAA SPORT OPPORTUNITY GRANT FROM NJCAA FOUNDATION

Middlesex College Director of Athletics Rocco Constantino announced that the athletic department has received a $1,000 grant from the NJCAA Foundation to enhance the college's wrestling program. The NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant was created to support the addition and growth of two-year collegiate sports offerings.

"We sincerely thank the NJCAA Foundation for this grant and for their fantastic support of its member institutions," said Constantino. "Grants like this go directly towards improving the experience of our student-athletes and it's great to see the NJCAA offer these grants and become so invested in student-athlete success."

The grant will be applied towards the 2022-2023 wrestling team and help with facility improvements.

"The NJCAA Foundation is excited to further support the growth of NJCAA member colleges and the sport programs they offer through the newly created NJCAA Sport Opportunity Grant," said Brian Luckett, NJCAA Foundation Executive Director. "The ability to provide this funding for the first time ever 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."

Constantino believes the Middlesex College wrestling program is ripe for growth and success in Region XIX and in the NJCAA.

"We believe that athletics is a vital component of student success," said Constantino. "We want our student-athletes to feel supported and believe that through participation in athletics, they prepare themselves for the next steps in their lives. Having the support of the NJCAA makes that experience even more rewarding."

Middlesex College wrestling had a successful 2021-22 season, finishing second in the Garden State Athletic Conference Tournament and sending four wrestlers to the NJCAA National Championships under the direction of former Head Coach Kyle Brewer. The Colts have recently hired Nationaal Wrestling Hall of Famer Dr. Joe Nisivoccia as their new Head Coach. Nisivoccia, a Middlesex College alum, was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2017 after an incredibly successful career as a wrestler and coach.

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.