The Winning Formula for Players Seeking College Degrees

What possibilities might exist when a growing sports brand partners with one of the largest academic institutions in the country? That very question is being answered inside Tarrant County College, as the Fort Worth Vaqueros and TCC unite to introduce the “Kick Smart” program.

The partnership is the first of its kind for the Vaqueros, a member of the National Premier Soccer League. Beginning this fall, team owner Michael Hitchcock is requiring all players without a college degree to attend TCC full time as part of their employment contracts. The player’s tuition will be funded by the soccer club’s corporate sponsors.

“TCC’s reputation for providing a diverse offering of academic programs made them a good fit for our young players looking for affordability and flexibility,” said Tobias Lopez, director of business services for the Fort Worth Vaqueros and a TCC graduate.

“If one kid can walk out of here with a two-year degree that sets him up for a career or sets him up to move to the next level, that’s a success to me.”

Tobias Lopez

Internationally, many professional soccer players begin their careers at a young age, and most do not go to college. This unique program gives the team’s players an opportunity to earn an associate degree while also pursuing a professional soccer career.

“I was fortunate to continue my education at the University of Central Arkansas and play on a soccer scholarship. A lot of my friends did not have the same fortune as it is a very small percentage who earn soccer scholarships," Vaqueros captain Joseph Cervantes said. "Now TCC has bridged the gap allowing both opportunities to be possible.”

Collaborating with the Vaqueros allows TCC to meet these students where they are and show them that higher education is within their reach. Students can enroll in traditional or online classes to complete a degree. In addition to the scholarships, players will have access to a variety of support and career services that are designed to enhance the college experience.

According to Suzanne (Cottraux) Groves, executive director for communications, public relations & marketing for TCC, the partnership is designed to make education easier to obtain for the school’s newest student-athletes.

“Kick Smart demonstrates TCC’s continued commitment to putting success within reach for the people of Tarrant County and, in this case, helping Vaquero players make a successful transition once their soccer careers have ended.”

Suzanne Groves

Tuition for a full-time, in-county student enrolled in 15 hours at TCC totals $885 per semester, making it one of the most affordable rates in the country. This does not include learning materials or other related fees.

As part of the agreement, current TCC students will benefit from club internship and exclusive learning opportunities, such as player visits to campus.

TCC also hopes it will benefit from exposure to a key segment of the Fort Worth Vaqueros’ fan base—young Latinos. Data shows it is one of the fastest growing segments in Tarrant County, and the College wants to stay top-of-mind with these fans.

TCC is one of the 20 largest colleges or universities in the United States, serving more than 100,000 students each year in academic, career training and noncredit programs.

The news received a positive response from TCC students.

“I’ve heard and read some comments from students that TCC has everything except a sports team,” said TCC Trinity River student Joanne Camarce. “I believe this new partnership will have a huge impact on both the students, current and prospective, and the fans of the Fort Worth Vaqueros.”