Blazing New Trails With Athletics
Blazing New Trails With Athletics
Forsyth Tech opened a new chapter with the launch of intercollegiate athletics. In late 2023, after a comprehensive exploratory effort, the college’s leadership formally announced plans to establish an athletics program that would compete in the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) – a first for Forsyth Tech.
The move came after months of research, campus surveys and community input, ensuring that the program’s development resonated with student interests and institutional values. The goal was ambitious: to have Forsyth Tech teams competing by the 2025-2026 academic year. “Introducing athletics at Forsyth Tech marks a new era for our institution,” said Dr. Janet Spriggs, President of Forsyth Tech, emphasizing the college’s commitment to “creating a vibrant campus life that supports student growth in all areas.” Sports have been proven to build community, enhance student engagement and foster school spirit on college campuses.
A critical early step was to find the right leader for the nascent program. The college launched a nationwide search for an Athletics Director and, in March 2024, appointed Shelly Barnes to the position. Barnes, a Triad-area native with deep experience in sports administration, brought a wealth of experience and a passion for building successful sports programs from the ground up.
Upon taking the helm at Forsyth Tech, Barnes expressed enthusiasm for the challenge: “Building an athletic program from scratch is exciting, and I’m thrilled to see what we can do at Forsyth Tech. This community has been incredibly welcoming and supportive, and I believe we have the tools to grow a competitive sports program.” As Athletic Director, her mandate included guiding Forsyth Tech through the NJCAA membership application process and determining which sports to introduce. Barnes noted that any sports added would need to “fit our facilities but also resonate with the interests and passions of the local community,” underscoring the strategic approach to building the program.
By mid-2024, after careful consideration, Forsyth Tech announced that its inaugural teams would be men’s basketball and women’s volleyball – choices well-suited to the college’s existing facilities and student enthusiasm. To lead the new teams, the college conducted a national search for head coaches.
In August 2024, Forsyth Tech unveiled its athletics branding and introduced the first Trailblazer coaches. Lucas Hunter was named the head coach of men’s basketball, bringing with him an impressive résumé from the collegiate ranks. An item that made Hunter stand out was that his teams always earned multiple Academic Excellence Awards and engaged in significant community service, reflecting Forsyth Tech’s dual emphasis on athletics and education.
Sarah Weavil was introduced as the head coach of women’s volleyball. A Davidson County native and former collegiate volleyball player, Weavil brought a deep passion for the sport and substantial coaching experience to the program. Her local roots and commitment to student well-being align with the college’s mission to develop well-rounded student-athletes. Hiring Hunter and Weavil not only filled key leadership roles, but also embodied the standard of excellence and community engagement that Forsyth Tech envisions for its teams.
In Fall 2025, Forsyth Tech’s basketball and volleyball teams prepared for their first seasons and anticipation has been building on campus and in the community. The launch of these programs is part of a broader strategy to enrich student life and create new opportunities for leadership, discipline and teamwork.
Barnes has noted that the athletics program will serve as “a rallying point for the Forsyth Tech community,” uniting students, faculty, alumni and local supporters. With a foundation of careful planning, experienced leadership and broad-based support, Forsyth Tech’s venture into intercollegiate athletics is poised to thrive. The first tip-off and first serve in 2025 will signal the beginning of a new era – one where the Trailblazers pursue excellence on the court and embody the college’s spirit of community and achievement.
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