Description

2026 JUCO World Series Banquet

Join us for the annual JUCO Banquet as we kick off the 2026 Alpine Bank NJCAA Division I JUCO World Series in Grand Junction. This special evening brings together community members, supporters, and all ten qualifying teams ahead of tournament play to celebrate the tradition, excellence, and excitement that make JUCO such a meaningful part of our community.

This year’s keynote speaker is Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Karl “Gus” Gustavson, a recently retired Navy SEAL and Grand Junction High School graduate. Gustavson served in a Special Operations unit for 22 years, including time with SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team 2 and Naval Special Warfare Development Group, also known as SEAL Team 6. His career included 15 deployments to nine countries, with 12 deployments to active combat zones, along with numerous combat commendations.

A homegrown hero with an extraordinary story of service, teamwork, courage, and resilience, Gustavson will share a message that reflects the same qualities it takes for these ten teams to earn their place in Grand Junction for the national tournament. He now serves as Director of Operations for Community First Project, a nonprofit focused on training law enforcement officers for active shooter and critical incident response.

Individual tickets and tables are available. Space is limited. Join us for an inspiring evening as we welcome teams from across the country and celebrate the start of another unforgettable JUCO World Series.

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, April 22, 2026