August 21, 2007

GSW enters NCAA provisional status

INDIANAPOLIS—Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) recently was invited by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to enter the provisional period of the new membership process effective Sept. 1, 2007.

Becoming an “active” member of the NCAA Division II plays an essential roll in the University’s goal to grow as an institution.

“This is good news for the future of our athletic program and the reputation of Georgia Southwestern,” said President Kendall A. Blanchard. “It is also a comment on the good work of our athletic department staff and its determination to make the move to NCAA status as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

According to NCAA bylaws, “The length of the provisional period will vary depending on an institution’s readiness to become an active member institution; however, in no event shall the provisional period be less than one year.”

Therefore, Georgia Southwestern cannot be a full member of the NCAA Division II until Fall 2008, at the earliest. However, GSW has taken steps to expedite their readiness to be an active member institution. The ‘Canes recently filled coaching positions for men’s soccer, women’s basketball and Jennifer Rodkey was appointed as GSW’s NCAA compliance coordinator.

“Reaching the provisional period required a team effort by the entire athletic department,” said Jaclyn Kaylor, associate athletic director. “The NCAA's new member process is strenuous and sometimes frustrating when you realize how many obstacles can stand in the way, but as I look back I see just how far we have come in just a few years.” 

In keeping with the bylaws, GSW plans to hire an independent firm, Oliver and Lindamenn Athletic Consulting, LLC of Colorado, to conduct a compliance blueprint assessment during the 2007-08 academic year. To help offset the costs of such a review, the NCAA will provide GSW with a $3,000 voucher. Provisional members are also required to attend the NCAA convention and the NCAA Regional Rules Seminar.

If all goes well, Georgia Southwestern will be a full member of the NCAA Division II by the beginning of the 2008-09 academic year. With full membership, the ‘Canes will be eligible to participate in all Peach Belt Conference and NCAA national championship tournaments.

“I know that our chances of membership would be drastically reduced if we did not have everyone working toward the same goal, so I am fully anticipating that 08-09 will be a great year for GSW as a full NCAA member,” Kaylor said.

Until Fall 2006, Georgia Southwestern was a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).       

                                                            - GSW -