‘Inside the Offseason’: Class is in Session

While many NC State students are off campus enjoying a long break from classes, members of the Men’s Basketball team are waking up and going to classes. Summer school is one of the things that many of the members of the team participate in; this gives them the extra time to knockout classes that require more time outside the classroom. Throughout the season time isn’t always at a premium! Between classes, practice, travel, study hall, media, and community service projects this leaves little free time.

However during the summer month, there is less going on. Most guys are usually taking one or two classes per session. This allows them to check off credits and continue their progress towards the ultimate goal of receiving a degree in their respective fields of study. Another important thing that summer school allows is a head start for the incoming freshmen. This gives them the opportunity to participate in limited summer practices and helps them slowly adjust to college life.

Speaking of incoming freshmen, I asked the new guys that were coming in while I was with the team, what their thoughts were on summer school? I was surprised that most of the answers were positive. They really enjoyed being able to ease their way into classes and it helped them realize what would be expected of them in the upcoming fall semester.

Coach Gottfried is a big supporter in summer school, it is all part of his plan to have each student athlete that plays for him to obtain their degree in three and half years. This plan is genius in my opinion. Having the goal to graduate in less than four years gives the players a little extra room just incase they have to reschedule a class that may not be conducive to practice and travel.

As the player’s stick to the academic plan laid out for each of them, they will obtain their degrees. One of the most impressive statistics of Coach Gottfried is not his winning percentage but it’s his graduation rate of 97%. I hope this gives you a better understanding of why summer school is so important.

In our next installment of ‘Inside the Offseason’ you’ll find out what type of workouts the guys are doing in order to better themselves for the upcoming season!