USF student-athletes set new academic records across the field

 

Six players from the football team earned spots on the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team. ORACLE PHOTO/WILL RAINSBERGER

USF athletes have shown they can break records on the field, but this year’s class has shown they can break them off the field as well.

The student-athletes celebrated a milestone year in 2024, capped by an average overall program-record’ Graduation Success Rate (GSR) of 88%. 

This marks the fourth consecutive year the athletics department’s average overall GSR has hit or exceeded 85%, a figure that reflects the percentage of student athletes who graduate within six years.

But that’s not the only record-breaking number.

During the fall 2024 semester, USF student-athletes earned a collective GPA of 3.46, the highest in program history

It was the 20th consecutive semester the department’s GPA was above 3.00, showing consistency impressive in collegiate athletics. 

Michael Kelly, USF Athletics director, said numbers are only a part of the story. 

“Our student-athletes continue to set new standards for excellence in the classroom and beyond,” he said.

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Seven programs achieved their best-ever semester GPAs, including football (3.18), men’s tennis (3.72), and women’s basketball (3.64).

Among the standout performers was the Bulls’ football team, with six players earning spots on the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team. 

Honorees included kicker John Cannon, long snapper Garrett Cates, wide receiver Christian Helms and others.

“These successes in the classroom highlight the incredible momentum we are riding as a university,” Kelly said.

Helms, one of the football team’s honorees, has achieved success in both academics and athletics.

In addition to earning Academic All-District honors, he was named a Military Bowl STEM Scholar-Athlete in 2024

The recognition honors his success in both academics and athletics, balancing challenging coursework as an exercise science major with sports.

“The Go Bowling Military Bowl STEM Scholar-Athlete Program honors an amazing group of young men who truly showcase what it means to be a student-athlete,” said Steve Beck, Military Bowl foundation president & executive director, last November.

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For Kelly, these achievements are a point of pride – and also a testament to the support system South Florida has built for its athletes. 

From academic advising to career development programs, Kelly said the university is doing everything possible to help students succeed.

This environment promotes outcomes that “extend beyond” their sports careers, Kelly said.

“These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff,” Kelly said.

And life after sports is already on the mind of many Bulls.

Kelly noted the department is focused on ensuring its athletes are ready to take the next steps, whether that means careers on or off the playing field.

For now, though, the Bulls are basking in the sunshine.