Spring Break
12 Named NAIA Scholar Athletes for Shorter
Bethany Dykes
Issue date: 1/23/09 Section: Sports
Tweleve of Shorter’s athletes exceeded expectations beyond the field this season, and the proof is in their grades.
Out of 200 recipients from 100 other institutions, the group has been recognized for their academic work through the NAIA Scholar Athlete award.
“Well, I’m excited. Anytime academic recognition for the athletes happens, we all get very excited,” said Bill Peterson, Shorter College athletic director.
To encourage the athletes to stay focused, the athletic department has set up a program to help them succeed. Shorter’s policy on participating in athletics is stricter than that of the NAIA. Freshmen are required to attend study halls along with upperclassmen whose GPAs fall below a 3.0.
Coaches also hold their athletes accountable for their work in the classroom as well as their time management.
“If you’re doing your best in the classroom, then you can do your best on the field,” said Josh Severns, men and women’s soccer coach. “It wouldn’t be consistent not to demand that of the athletes.”
In order to receive the award, the athlete must be a junior or senior. The athlete must also have a 3.5 GPA or better.
Out of 200 recipients from 100 other institutions, the group has been recognized for their academic work through the NAIA Scholar Athlete award.
“Well, I’m excited. Anytime academic recognition for the athletes happens, we all get very excited,” said Bill Peterson, Shorter College athletic director.
To encourage the athletes to stay focused, the athletic department has set up a program to help them succeed. Shorter’s policy on participating in athletics is stricter than that of the NAIA. Freshmen are required to attend study halls along with upperclassmen whose GPAs fall below a 3.0.
Coaches also hold their athletes accountable for their work in the classroom as well as their time management.
“If you’re doing your best in the classroom, then you can do your best on the field,” said Josh Severns, men and women’s soccer coach. “It wouldn’t be consistent not to demand that of the athletes.”
In order to receive the award, the athlete must be a junior or senior. The athlete must also have a 3.5 GPA or better.
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