Umpqua Community College Athletics

The Riverhawks compete in 11 varsity sports as part of the NWAC (Northwest Athletic Conference), where community college athletics focus on regional competition and preparing students for four-year transfers. With 228 total athletes out of 1,974 students, about 12% of the campus participates in varsity athletics. The athletic department distributes $269,988 in scholarships across all sports, providing meaningful but modest financial support compared to four-year universities. NWAC schools emphasize both athletic development and academic preparation, with many student-athletes using their two years to improve skills before transferring to NCAA programs. The conference includes strong regional rivals like Lane Community College and Chemeketa Community College, creating competitive matchups within Oregon's community college system.