CGA athletes graduate at a rate of 95% - 7% higher than the rest of the corps

Division III sets the standard for molding student-athletes; it is not surprising to see many of these athletes excel in professions outside of athletics, especially one with a strong physical component such as the Coast Guard.

Questionable recruiting behavior is more prevalent at Division I schools, thus leading to the perception of athlete-students, with little emphasis on the student portion. SA's are far less egregious in recruiting practices - many SA athletes are excellent students and those that are not are still capable enough to handle a rigorous curriculum. There are no basket weaving majors at SA's.
 
Knowing military discipline, the coach probably sets the GPA they want to see. If the cadets don't meet those requirements, the coaches may threaten to kick them from the team. However, one's brain does tend to work better when in excellent shape.
 
For most athletes that don't go on to college, the end of high school is the end of competition. I think some athletes see the opportunity to compete in their sport at a high level as a compelling reason to stay in school, to get the grades to stay eligible, and to come back for another year. It's a case of the tail wagging the dog, but for those sport-first people, they wouldn't be in school without the team.

EDIT: This is clearly not the case for CGA student athletes, but this is not a unique scenario across the NCAA.
 
For those who think CGA shouldn't recruit for athletics or that those who are recruited are marginal students: https://www.uscgasports.com/general/2019-20/releases/20200505eyl4tk

The press release also notes that athletes experience a 12% greater "success rate" than the student body as a whole, but doesn't define the metrics of "success".
That is an impressive graduation rate! I wonder how many athletes were recruited as opposed to ‘walk-ons’? The coaches do a good job during Swab summer to invite newcomers to their teams. Not a bad idea since 80% or so of the incoming class earned a varsity letter in high school,
 
For those who think CGA shouldn't recruit for athletics or that those who are recruited are marginal students: https://www.uscgasports.com/general/2019-20/releases/20200505eyl4tk

The press release also notes that athletes experience a 12% greater "success rate" than the student body as a whole, but doesn't define the metrics of "success".
Thanks for sharing. I'm a big fan of sports. I would guess the higher percentage is because of a few factors. The commitment requires better time management, most students seem to do better during their sport season than the off season. The "team" environment is very helpful. The member wants to do well to support the team and the team wants to support the member so he/she remains on the team. They help provide academic and emotional support. Also, of the students that were reclassified to another class year, the only ones I knew about were strong participants in their respective sports which I believe help them be retained.
I'd be curious what the "success rate" is too. I hope it has to do with officer retention, or those that become senior officers, since the academy should be in the business of making great officers.
 
Knowing military discipline, the coach probably sets the GPA they want to see. If the cadets don't meet those requirements, the coaches may threaten to kick them from the team. However, one's brain does tend to work better when in excellent shape.
Not sure where you are getting this - it doesn't occur at all. 2.0 and go is the expectation. Anything beyond that is up to the student. It's pretty tough to demand a certain GPA at an institution that requires even government majors to take calculus and physics
 
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