Carteret Community College Launches Women’s Soccer: A Sign of Growing Opportunities in NJCAA Athletics
Carteret Community College has announced Robbie Park as the inaugural Head Coach of its new Kraken Women’s Soccer program, set to begin competition in Fall 2026. This marks a significant step for the college and reflects a broader trend of expanding athletic opportunities within the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association).
The Rise of Women’s Soccer and Junior College Programs
The launch of Carteret’s program coincides with the increasing global popularity of women’s soccer. As Dr. Tracy Mancini, President of Carteret Community College, noted, the growth of the sport, coupled with strong local high school teams, created a natural opportunity for a Division II program. This isn’t an isolated event. Across the country, community colleges are recognizing the demand and potential of women’s soccer, leading to program expansions and increased investment in the sport.
Robbie Park: A Coach with a Championship Pedigree
The selection of Robbie Park as head coach signals Carteret’s commitment to building a competitive program. Park brings a wealth of international coaching experience, having worked in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and China. His recent role as Volunteer Assistant Coach at Northwest Mississippi Community College, where he helped secure back-to-back NJCAA National Championships, demonstrates his ability to foster success at the junior college level. His UEFA B License further validates his coaching credentials.
Building a Program from the Ground Up: Challenges and Opportunities
Establishing a new athletic program presents unique challenges. Athletics Director Scott Lane emphasized the importance of Park’s experience in building a “championship culture.” This involves not only recruiting talented student-athletes but similarly instilling core values and creating a supportive environment. The Crystal Coast location is seen as a significant recruiting advantage, attracting athletes seeking both competitive opportunities and a desirable place to live and study.
The Importance of Community Engagement
Park’s vision extends beyond the field, emphasizing the importance of connecting the team with the local community. This approach aligns with a growing trend in collegiate athletics, where programs are increasingly focused on building relationships with their surrounding areas. Strong community ties can lead to increased support, volunteer involvement, and a stronger sense of local pride.
Arendell Parrott Academy and ESTA: Park’s Roots in Player Development
Park’s current roles leading the Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Soccer programs at Arendell Parrott Academy, and his founding of the European Soccer Training Academy (ESTA), highlight his dedication to player development. ESTA, a high-performance program for youth and college-bound athletes, demonstrates his commitment to nurturing talent and preparing players for the next level. This experience will be invaluable in recruiting and developing players for the Kraken.
NJCAA Division II: A Pathway to Four-Year Universities
Competing in the NJCAA Division II provides student-athletes with a valuable pathway to four-year universities. The NJCAA serves as a stepping stone for many athletes, offering opportunities to improve their skills, gain experience, and earn scholarships. Carteret’s program will provide local and regional athletes with a chance to pursue their athletic and academic goals.
Did you know?
Robbie Park originally trained in prestigious academies in Scotland, including Motherwell FC, St. Mirren FC, and Queen’s Park FC, before playing collegiately at the University of New Brunswick, where he achieved significant team success.
FAQ
- When will the Kraken Women’s Soccer team begin competition? Fall 2026.
- What division will the team compete in? NJCAA Division II.
- Who is the Head Coach? Robbie Park.
- What qualifications does Coach Park have? He holds a UEFA B License and has coached internationally and at the collegiate level, including helping Northwest Mississippi Community College win back-to-back NJCAA National Championships.
The launch of the Kraken Women’s Soccer program is a positive development for Carteret Community College and the Eastern North Carolina soccer community. With a dedicated coach and a clear vision, the program has the potential to become a source of pride for the region.
Explore more about Carteret Community College Athletics: https://carteret.edu/athletics/
