Leesburg, Fla. — The Southeast Christian College Eagles are soaring into a new era of athletics. After a foundational first year with its Varsity Men’s Basketball program, SECC (Southeastern Christian College) has announced a major expansion to its sports offerings ahead of the 2025-2026 season.

The private Christian institution will now field four athletic programs: Varsity Men’s Soccer, Varsity Women’s Basketball, JV Men’s Basketball, and the returning Varsity Men’s Basketball. So far, 25 student-athletes have signed across these teams, with more recruits expected, particularly for women’s basketball and men’s soccer.

Varsity Men’s Soccer Debuts with Coach Valverde

Leading the new Varsity Men’s Soccer program is Coach Fernando Valverde, a proven coach from SECC’s sister campus, Polk Christian Preparatory School. Valverde brings a strong track record with both boys’ and girls’ high school programs and will helm the Eagles as they kick off their inaugural campaign on August 24 at Webber University. The team’s first home match is scheduled for October 12. “We are attempting to have construction completed on the Treadway School in Leesburg so we can play games on campus for soccer. If not completed in time they will play at our sister campus Polk Chirstian Preparatory School in Lakeland.” says Athletic Director Dwayne Walker.

JV Men’s Basketball Adds Developmental Focus

SECC is also launching a JV Men’s Basketball team with a dual mission: athletic development and spiritual growth. Coach Tim Reachmack, known for his mentorship and developmental approach, will lead the program. With 12 players currently rostered and final additions expected soon, the JV Eagles will open their season at home on October 28thp against West Bay Collegiate Academy at 6 p.m.

Women’s Basketball Takes Flight

The Varsity Women’s Basketball program is still in its formative stage, with a coaching search underway. Six players have already committed, with room for up to 15 on the roster. The Lady Eagles are set to debut on November 1 against Beacon College, with game time to be announced.

Men’s Basketball Builds on Promising Start

The Varsity Men’s Basketball team will return for its second season after a gritty inaugural campaign that saw the Eagles finish 4-21 but notch a memorable 14-point playoff victory over John Melvin University (LA), a team that had beaten them by 40 earlier in the year. Their postseason ended with a loss to eventual New South Athletic Conference champion Lighthouse Christian College.

Now armed with a full 15-man roster, including six returners and several college transfers, the Eagles aim to build on last year’s experience. They will tip off their new season on October 21 at 7 p.m. with a home preseason game against Lakeview Basketball Academy.

SECC plans to play all home games at 10516 Treadway School Road in Leesburg, Florida 34788.

Faith at the Forefront

SECC’s athletic growth is grounded in its spiritual mission. Men’s Basketball Head Coach and Athletic Director Dwayne Walker praised the impact of the program’s first year, highlighting how three opposing student-athletes committed their lives to Christ during the 2024-2025 season. “God has already done so many amazing things in our first year,” he said. “I can’t wait to see what He has in store for 2025-2026!”

What’s Next

All athletic programs will begin summer workouts on June 16, with a focus not only on training but on spiritual and character development. The Eagles continue to recruit for their varsity men’s soccer and women’s basketball rosters.

As the SECC Athletics Department looks ahead, the message is clear: “Praying for lives to be forever changed and for the Lord to receive all the glory.”
#RiseUp #LiveJesus