Laurinburg, North Carolina / CRWE PRESS RELEASE / February 11, 2026 - Scotland County Parks and Recreation and the North Carolina Lightning Football Program, a member of the National Junior College Prep (NJCP) Football League, have officially established a strategic partnership. This decision follows a presentation to the Scotland County Parks & Recreation Advisory Board at the noon meeting on February 10, 2026, held at the Scotland Place Civic Center. The collaboration is designed to strengthen community engagement, foster youth development, and drive local economic growth through athletics.

This partnership brings together organizations committed to providing safe, structured football and recreational programs for Scotland County's youth and families, with official endorsement from the Advisory Board.

Partnership Goals

• Expand athletic opportunities while promoting leadership, discipline, and teamwork among participants.

• Host events that celebrate education, foster civic pride, and strengthen community unity.

• Support NJCP's mission of leveraging sports for positive change, mentorship, and equitable access to opportunities.

This partnership supports Scotland County's goals of expanding recreational access, promoting economic vitality, and fostering unity, further positioning the county as a hub for athletic excellence.

Advisory Board Mission The mission of the Scotland County Parks & Recreation Advisory Board is to actively encourage, provide, and promote high-quality leisure, recreation, and cultural opportunities, along with facilities and environments essential to the health and well-being of all citizens.

Key Representatives

• Jeremy Baker, Parks and Recreation staff member/coach, is driving the expansion of the youth program.

• Stephan Pearson, North Carolina Lightning Head Coach and NJCP League Representative.

• Lawrence Baker, Director of Scotland County Parks and Recreation, is overseeing alignment.

Official Statement "This partnership will deliver measurable benefits, including enhanced youth recreation, the development of future leaders, increased community engagement, and a positive economic impact," the organizations stated. "We welcome continued support from the Scotland County Board of Commissioners and NJCP League Administration and remain committed to transparency and inclusion."

Contact: Lawrence Baker (Lbaker@scotlandcounty.org, 910-277-2585).

About NJCP Football League:

The National Junior College Prep Football League is a nationwide developmental organization focused on preparing student-athletes for success on and off the field. NJCP provides structured opportunities for high school graduates, transfer portal athletes, and overlooked players to continue competing while receiving coaching, mentorship, and exposure to collegiate programs. For more information, please visit www.njcpfootball.com or follow @NJCP_Football on social media. 

For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:

National Junior College Prep Football League
Email: admin@njcpfootball.com
Phone: (435) 862-9366

Source: NJCP Football