Article & Photography by Colin Lowry, Additional Photography by Josh Brethauer | Owl Staff
APG Federal Credit Union Arena has been a staple of HCC sports since 2012.
For many students at Harford Community College, athletics are more than just games; they’re a vital part of the campus experience. From cheering on the Fighting Owls with friends to learning leadership and discipline through competition, sports help bring the HCC community together.
However, as student interests shift and new athletic trends emerge across the college landscape, it has students wondering if HCC is ready to expand the amount of opportunities it offers.
In an interview with Owl Media, HCC’s Athletic Director Edward Liesch was candid about the balancing act they face.
“We try to offer a range of athletic opportunities that fit within our budget and facilities’ constraints while meeting the interests of our students,” states Liesch.
There’s always a way to expand, but every new team or program must be weighed against real-world limits such as space, budget, and staffing. Still, the department is precautious with the right resources, and the correct time to establish more sports.
Some of that growth is already on the horizon. One of the bigger changes coming to HCC sports is the launch of women’s flag football in Spring 2026, a sport that’s taking off nationwide, especially among college students.
“We have over 15 women already signed up for the first season,” states Liesch.
The Harford Sports Complex is home to Harford Stadium, a 1,000-seat turf facility built in 1968 that’s home to the lacrosse and soccer teams.
HCC is also considering adding eSports, which are video games played in an organized, competitive manner, although they’ll need to find a dedicated space first.
“I hope with the opening of the new Chesapeake Welcome Center, some space could be made available to convert into an eSports facility,” states Liesch.
Incorporating eSports would require much more than just a facility. Consoles, TV monitors, and audio equipment all play important roles in making eSports run as smooth as possible.
“One of the things that makes Harford Community College special is the diversity of our student population…we are confident that we would have interest from students for any sport we add.”
Adding new sports isn’t as simple as it seems. Administrators must consider student interest, budget realities, and available facilities when adding more sports.
More teams mean higher costs, more wear and tear on facilities, and a bigger need for qualified coaches, but would students join if more sports were available? Assistant Athletic Director Dimitrios Jalen-Joy is confident that students would engage with additional sports.
“One of the things that makes Harford Community College special is the diversity of our student population, and because of this, we are confident that we would have interest from students for any sport we add,” states Jalen-Joy.
Still, being a college athlete is a big commitment for many students at HCC who have to balance academics and athletics.
The Harford Tennis Complex was renovated in Spring 2013 to move behind the APG Federal Credit Union Arena. The renovations also called for the courts to be blue to remain in line with HCC’s colors.
“As for adding sports such as football, figure skating, or ultimate frisbee—it’s most likely not going to happen due to financial reasons,” states Jalen-Joy. “Figure skating and ultimate frisbee are not currently an NJCAA-sponsored sport and therefore would be extremely difficult to sponsor and maintain. However, one of the great things about college, especially community college, is that it is generally not that difficult to start a club.”
HCC offers club and intramural leagues, with open gym sessions available Monday through Thursday from 7 AM – 9 AM and 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM, as well as Friday from 7 AM – 4 PM.
There are other sports options like men’s volleyball, wrestling, or bringing back golf and tennis if HCC can find space, support, and the financials to make it happen. Golf was dropped in 2015 for lack of participation, and more recently men’s and women’s tennis in 2025 for the same reason.
The future for HCC athletics is bright. There are challenges to overcome, but the excitement around women’s flag football and the potential for eSports shows that things are moving in the right direction. With continued student interest and thoughtful planning, HCC could be ready to expand its athletic programs and make campus life even richer for future Owls.