West Hills College Lemoore announces men's basketball, women's volleyball coming soon

The WHCD Board of Trustees recently approved the addition of an inaugural men’s basketball team and women’s volleyball beginning in the fall.

The move comes as West Hills College Lemoore seeks to balance the composition of its athletic teams and is moving forward with changes to its athletic program. 

On Tuesday, February 29, the Central Valley Conference Commissioner approved the addition of both a women’s volleyball team and men’s basketball team. However, the commissioner also recommended the suspension of the women’s and men’s cross-country teams for the upcoming 2018-2019 school year.

School officials say the college’s decision came because of discussions with the West Hills Community College Board of Trustees, internal planning efforts and program reviews and the ability to attract and recruit adequate team rosters.

WHCL Athletic Director Chris Hawken is working with his athletics department faculty and staff and the Central Valley Conference to implement the coming changes. 

“West Hills College Lemoore’s Golden Eagle Arena is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment and is the perfect venue to showcase new athletic teams,” said Hawken.  “We welcome the expansion of our athletics program and look forward to the additions of a new women’s volleyball team and a new men’s basketball team.”   

Although West Hills College Lemoore is suspending their cross-country program, they will not say goodbye to head coach Mark Unzueta.

“I would like to thank our cross-country head coach, Mark Unzueta for his service and dedication to our cross-country team,” said WHCL President Kristin Clark. “We are pleased that Mark will continue teaching part-time at WHCL.”

Clark is pleased with the additions to the college’s athletic program. “It is an exciting time at West Hills College Lemoore,” she said.  “These changes reflect our continued growth as a college, and our new teams will provide opportunities for enrollment growth and increased recognition in the Central Valley.”