According to the most recent graduation rate statistics, the University of Maryland (my alma mater) basketball team ranks dead last. Article. Who cares…the ivory tower types who are still disillusioned that college athletes are “student athletes”.
Most basketball players go to big time college basketball schools to learn how to play basketball, not to get a degree. They are learning a trade just as I did when I studied engineering. They practice by lifting weights and training, whereas I practiced by studying and doing homework. They are judged by their statistics and the team’s success, where I was judged by my performance on tests and projects. They study from the best teachers to increase their skills and further their potential just as I did. Just because their trade is not intellectual does not make it inferior or them stupid for pursuing it.
The first finger pointed will assuredly be at head coach Gary Williams. He makes around a million a year, is high profile, and was a former college athlete himself. However, Gary is the head coach on the court, not in the classroom. Academics requires individual effort and determination, that is not Gary’s responsibility and it cannot be. Academic success is the responsibility of each athlete. Any student who does not desire to succeed will not.
I do not believe there is anyone to blame about low graduation rates amongst “student athletes”. They are not important. I want Maryland basketball to win games, thats it. What happens to each athlete while they are there and after they leave (whenever they leave) is up to them.
Posted by samduvall 