CR Football Moves Up to National Division

Mar 14 2025

In a major milestone for the College of the Redwoods football program, the team has been elevated from the Pacific 7 Conference of the American Division to the NorCal Conference of the National Division. This promotion, achieved just four years after the program’s reinstatement, fast-tracks a key goal set by Head Coach Jason White.

The move positions CR’s football program for greater competition and opens new doors for recruitment, allowing the team to attract high-caliber athletes who aspire to play at Division I and II schools. Additionally, it provides a pathway for the team to compete for a state title—an opportunity previously out of reach.

“Our staff and athletic administration saw this as the right moment to take our program to the next level,” said Head Coach Jason White. “Moving up not only advances our vision of playing for a state championship but also strengthens our ability to recruit top talent and prepare our athletes for four-year programs.”

This transition follows significant investment in CR’s athletic facilities. The recent completion of an all-weather track and field provides a durable playing surface for athletes year-round, and an upcoming multi-sport indoor facility, one of the only in the California Community College system, will offer the football team a dedicated practice space during bad weather. Beyond benefiting CR athletics, these improvements will also serve as a valuable resource for the broader community.

The team received the news on March 11, and the excitement was immediate. “The room erupted,” White shared. “Our players are ready for the challenge.” The new schedule has already been sent to incoming recruits, who are eager to compete at this elevated level.

Looking ahead, a second phase of stadium improvements is planned, including the addition of lights for night games, a press box, a renovated concession stand, and expanded seating. Community support will be key to making this next phase a reality. Those interested in contributing to the project can donate through the CR Foundation at www.redwoods.edu/about/foundation/index.php.

Read the Times-Standard article here.