The Institute for GOD Joins NCCAA for 2025-2026 Athletic Season
President Gregg Garner shares The Institute’s Athletic Philosophy with our group of inaugural athletes, April 2025.
For Immediate release
We’re thrilled to announce that The Institute for GOD has been accepted as a provisional member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) beginning in the 2025–2026 academic year. As part of Division II’s Mideast Region, our student-athletes will take the field representing our values—and our new mascot, the Phoenix—in both Men’s Soccer and Women’s Volleyball.
Institute Alumni Stephen Ownby has been named Athletic Director at The Institute for GOD.
This is an exciting milestone in the launch of our intercollegiate athletics program. The NCCAA is a national organization of Christian institutions committed to character development and competition rooted in Christ.
“At The Institute for Global Outreach Developments International, we are honored to join the NCCAA, an organization that shares our commitment to character, Christ-centered excellence, and holistic development,” said President Gregg Garner. “This partnership aligns seamlessly with our mission to cultivate servant-leaders who pursue both spiritual depth and competitive excellence. We believe the NCCAA provides a meaningful platform for our student-athletes to represent their faith with integrity on and off the field.”
The Institute for GOD mascot is The Phoenix, signifying resurrection power to Rise Up from the ashes.
The NCCAA also welcomed Baptist University of Florida and Hesston College as new member institutions this year. Executive Director Dan Wood noted, “The NCCAA is excited to welcome The Institute for GOD as a provisional member and assist them as they develop their intercollegiate athletics program. Driven by our shared mission, we look forward to a long-term partnership.”
As we prepare for our first season of Phoenix athletics, we’re focused on building competitive teams that reflect the Institute’s commitment to spiritual growth, teamwork, and excellence. Tryouts and recruitment are already underway.
If you’re interested in joining our Men’s Soccer or Women’s Volleyball Teams, please contact us!
