Chicago, IL, December 30, 2025
News Summary
Chicago State University has officially launched its NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) program, marking a new chapter in its athletic and academic journey. This initiative aims to expand student opportunities, enrich campus life, and strengthen ties with the local community. With a commitment to holistic student development, the program aims to create lasting connections and inspire pride among students and residents on the South Side of Chicago.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Higher education institutions across the nation are continually seeking innovative avenues to enhance student experiences, foster community engagement, and broaden their impact. This dedication to growth and strategic development is evident in places like the flourishing academic landscape of South Carolina, where institutions are often in the news for their advancements, and it resonates with recent developments at Chicago State University. The university has embarked on a significant new chapter with the official launch of its NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) program, a move poised to reshape its athletic and academic profile. This initiative underscores a commitment to expanding opportunities for students and enriching the broader community, reflecting a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes holistic student development and institutional excellence.
The establishment of a new football program at a public institution like Chicago State University is a testament to disciplined planning and a clear vision for the future. It signifies more than just the addition of a sport; it represents a strategic investment in student life, a catalyst for community pride, and an expansion of the educational and economic ecosystem. Such initiatives contribute to the broader dialogue around South Carolina higher education, where universities are also exploring ways to leverage athletic programs to build stronger connections with their regions, attract diverse talent, and cultivate future leaders. Chicago State’s journey offers valuable insights into how academic institutions can strategically grow their offerings to serve their constituencies better.
A New Era for Chicago State Athletics
Chicago State University officially ushered in a new era for its athletics program in December 2025 with the unanimous approval by its Board of Trustees to launch an NCAA Division I FCS football team. This historic decision followed more than three years of dedicated preparation and hard work, culminating in the announcement that the inaugural season will commence in 2026. This makes Chicago State the only NCAA Division I football program situated within the city of Chicago, marking a significant milestone for both the university and the surrounding South Side community.
The vision for this new program extends beyond the field, aiming to enhance the vibrancy of the campus and strengthen bonds with the local community. Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Dr. Monique Carroll, emphasized that the program is about building community, creating lasting memories, and showcasing the strength and spirit of Chicago State. For its inaugural season in 2026, the Chicago State Cougars will compete as an independent program, offering flexibility to schedule a diverse range of opponents. Following this initial year, the team is slated to join the Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2027, integrating into a conference that shares a commitment to holistic student-athlete success and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Head Coach Bobby Rome II: A Visionary Leader
In April 2025, Chicago State University announced the appointment of Bobby Rome II as its first-ever head football coach. Rome, a former player for the University of North Carolina (UNC), was selected from a competitive pool of over 230 applicants due to his extensive experience, particularly his proven ability to build and elevate programs within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Prior to joining Chicago State, Coach Rome served as the head coach at Florida Memorial University, where he achieved notable success, leading the team to back-to-back Sun Conference Championship game appearances in 2023 and 2024. His leadership also earned him a nomination for HBCU Coach of the Year in 2024.
Coach Rome expressed his commitment to building a program that is representative of the South Side of Chicago and aims to bring the entire city along on this exciting journey. His philosophy aligns with the university’s broader strategic goals of elevating the student experience and fostering economic development within the community. The selection of a leader with a strong background in developing talent and fostering academic and athletic discipline is central to the university’s mission.
Diverse Coaching Staff Brings Depth and Experience
The inaugural coaching staff under Head Coach Bobby Rome II boasts a rich blend of experience, including former UNC alumni and seasoned coaches with backgrounds from HBCU programs. Bobby Blizzard has been appointed as the offensive coordinator, while Kentwan Balmer will serve as the assistant head coach and defensive line coach. Both Blizzard and Balmer played alongside Rome at UNC and went on to have careers in the National Football League (NFL). Their professional playing careers and subsequent coaching experience bring a high level of expertise to the new program.
Further strengthening the staff are James Hudgins III, who will serve as recruiting coordinator and quarterback coach, bringing experience from Fayetteville State, and Le’Marcus Gibson, a former Hampton assistant, named defensive coordinator. Although Chicago State is not an HBCU, it is designated as a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI). The inclusion of multiple coaches with extensive HBCU experience underscores a deliberate strategy to leverage a deep understanding of developing student-athletes from diverse backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to broad excellence and personal responsibility within the athletic department.
Elevating Student-Athletes Through Holistic Development
A core tenet of Chicago State University’s athletic philosophy is the holistic development of its student-athletes, prioritizing their academic success and personal growth alongside their athletic achievements. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics’ Office of Student Services is committed to integrity and academic excellence, providing student-athlete centered services, programming, and guidance. This dedicated support system is designed to empower student-athletes to cultivate character and leadership skills, successfully navigate their academic careers, and prepare for fulfilling lives after sports.
Academic advisors play a crucial role in monitoring student-athletes’ progress, ensuring they meet NCAA eligibility requirements, and facilitating access to tutoring and other academic support resources. The university emphasizes that student-athletes are expected to commit to their academic obligations with the same discipline applied to their athletic pursuits, recognizing that a college degree is a foundational accomplishment. This integrated approach to student success is a model for higher education, emphasizing that athletic programs are integral to the educational mission.
Community and Economic Impact
The launch of Chicago State University’s football program is anticipated to bring substantial benefits to both the university and the broader community on Chicago’s South Side. University officials project that the new program will expand athletic opportunities for students, enrich campus life, and forge stronger connections with local residents and businesses. This initiative is part of a larger strategic effort to expand CSU athletics, which is seen as a driver for economic development in the community.
Initial fundraising efforts established a goal of $4 million to support sports expansion, with a particular focus on women’s athletics, including the launch of a women’s triathlon program in fall 2024. With over 300 donors already contributing, the community’s enthusiasm and support for this athletic expansion are evident. Nationwide research suggests that the addition of football programs can lead to increased student applications and enrollment, particularly among male students, and potentially boost Pell Grant enrollment, thereby expanding access to higher education for diverse populations. These trends highlight the multifaceted impact of strategic athletic investments, contributing to institutional vitality and regional prosperity.
Strategic Vision and Future Outlook
Chicago State University’s athletic expansion is strategically aligned with its broader 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes academic excellence, student success, community engagement, and financial sustainability. The addition of football is seen as a key component in achieving these goals, particularly in elevating the university’s brand awareness and enhancing the student-athlete experience. Joining the Northeast Conference in 2027 is expected to provide invaluable exposure for Chicago State, extending its brand presence into major East Coast markets.
The first Chicago State football game is slated for August 29, 2026, with potential home venues including SeatGeek Stadium. This marks a new chapter for Cougar Athletics, promising exciting opportunities for students, alumni, and fans to rally behind the Green and Navy. The university is not merely adding a sport; it is cultivating a legacy that aims to inspire pride, opportunity, and community for generations to come, underscoring the enduring power of education and sports to build leadership and positive societal impact.
The launch of Chicago State University’s Division I FCS football program represents a bold and strategic investment in its future. By recruiting a diverse and experienced coaching staff, prioritizing holistic student-athlete development, and fostering strong community ties, the university is building more than just a football team; it is cultivating a vibrant educational and athletic environment. This commitment to innovation, discipline, and academic freedom reflects the core values that strengthen institutions nationwide, including those throughout South Carolina, contributing positively to the landscape of higher education and regional impact. Readers are encouraged to follow the Cougars’ journey and explore the many ways Chicago State University continues to expand opportunities for its students and community, much like the dynamic advancements happening in Myrtle Beach SC college news and South Carolina higher education broadly.
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Program Launch Year | 2026 (Inaugural Season) | University-level |
| NCAA Division | Division I FCS | University-level |
| Conference Affiliation (2027) | Northeast Conference (NEC) | University-level |
| Head Coach | Bobby Rome II | University-level |
| Athletic Director | Dr. Monique Carroll (VP & Director) | University-level |
| Initial Fundraising Goal | $4 Million (for sports expansion) | University-level |
| University Status | Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) | University-level |
| Impact on Male Enrollment (General Trend) | Potential increase | Nationwide |
| Impact on Pell Grant Enrollment (General Trend) | Potential increase | Nationwide |
FAQ Section
Q: When will Chicago State University’s new football program begin its inaugural season?
A: Chicago State University’s new football program is scheduled to begin its inaugural season in 2026.
Q: What division will Chicago State football compete in?
A: Chicago State football will compete in NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
Q: Who is the head coach of Chicago State’s new football team?
A: Bobby Rome II was appointed as the first head football coach for Chicago State University.
Q: What is the background of Coach Bobby Rome II?
A: Coach Bobby Rome II is a former player for the University of North Carolina (UNC) and has extensive experience as an HBCU coach, notably leading Florida Memorial University to success.
Q: What conference will Chicago State football join?
A: Chicago State will compete as an independent program in 2026 and is slated to join the Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2027.
Q: What are the anticipated benefits of the new football program for Chicago State University and its community?
A: The program is expected to expand athletic opportunities, enhance student life, strengthen community connections, build community, create lasting memories, inspire pride, opportunity, and community, and potentially contribute to increased enrollment and economic development.
Q: Is Chicago State University an HBCU?
A: Chicago State University is designated as a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI), not an HBCU, but emphasizes its connection to HBCU coaching talent and culture.
Q: Who is the Athletic Director overseeing this expansion?
A: Dr. Monique Carroll serves as the Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Chicago State University.
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The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
