Olney Central College Athletics

The Blue Knights compete in the NJCAA, which represents the junior college level where students can earn athletic scholarships while developing skills for potential four-year transfers. Just 71 students participate in varsity athletics out of 549 total enrollment, making athletes 12.9% of the student body. The college offers four varsity sports with $375,899 in athletic scholarships available. NJCAA schools typically focus on providing opportunities for students to continue competing while earning their associate degrees. Many junior college athletes use this level as a stepping stone to transfer to larger universities. The small enrollment creates an intimate atmosphere where student-athletes often know most of their classmates. Rural southeastern Illinois doesn't have major sports rivalries, but competition within the NJCAA region provides meaningful games for local fans.