LCCC Subs Out Intercollegiate Program for Intramurals
Ryan Gillott | Writer
LCCC announced plans to end its intercollegiate sports program and replace it with intramurals starting fall 2025.
“It was decided that intercollegiate sports would end last summer,” said Linda Baker, Executive Director of College Relations and Student Life for LCCC. “The planned baseball season was canceled due to an empty coaching position, and a lack of sign-ups for the team.”
According to Lehigh Valley News, Baker said, “Although there will no longer be regional competitions, the intramural approach will reduce the budgetary pressures of intercollegiate competitions…”
Baker said the college believes the new intramural program will increase student engagement and bring new opportunities, however, some players and parents disagree.
“It was an awesome experience. I made a lot of friends,” said Madeline Taylor, a LCCC women’s basketball player, after the season’s final game. “It was a welcoming opportunity, and the kids that are coming in this year won’t have that.”
Tim Sebastian, father of Emily Sebastian, a member of the women’s basketball team, believes the college may suffer with the end of the program.
The shift to intramurals also impacts students who participate in sports broadcasting.
Peter Sabino, LCCC’s Digital Media and Design Lab Coordinator, runs the program, which began when sports resumed after the COVID-19 lockdowns. Sabino said that before the announcement about the intercollegiate program shutting down, there had been plans to expand the broadcast program.
“There may be opportunities down the road, so students should stay positive and keep their eyes open,” Sabino said.
Lacey Timony, Operations and Events Manager for Athletics, Intramurals, Recreation, and Wellness, oversees new opportunities for students still interested in sports. According to Timony, student workers Josh Shepherd and Berto Lugo have been an asset in getting the programs running.
“When fall 2025 begins, we'd like to be able to offer an array of different sports and activities,” Timony said.
She added that times and activities are dependent on the demand of students and staff. Timony also said families could watch their children play intramural sports and participate in wellness activities.
To register for intramurals or suggest sports and leagues, contact Timony via email at ltimony@lccc.edu or attend Wellness Wednesday on the first Wednesday of each month, from 2:30–3:30 p.m. in Berrier Hall, Room 4 at the Schnecksville campus.
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