June 20, 2012

All 19 of the University of South Carolina’s countable intercollegiate sports posted a multi-year score of 950 or better, according to the Academic Progress Rate (APR) statistics that were released today.

“It’s phenomenal how far we’ve come with our APR numbers,” said Athletics Director Eric Hyman. “Every program has made a marked improvement from the first four-year scores that came out four years ago, including an incredible 69 point jump in men’s basketball. Our football team’s 11-win season, along with a single year APR of 993 and a four-year mark of 966, really makes a statement. This is a great reflection on our coaches, academic support staff and the student-athletes. Coupled with the success we’ve had on the playing fields, there’s no better time to be a Gamecock.”

Highlighting the South Carolina data is the football program, posting a 2010-11 single year score of 993 and a multi-year APR of 966, both the highest marks on record. Men’s basketball claimed a perfect 1000 mark for the single year, raising its four-year APR to a record 968. In addition to men’s basketball, men’s swimming/diving, women’s cross country, women’s golf, women’s tennis and volleyball also reported a single year APR score of 1000.

“These numbers reflect the commitment to academics from all involved,” said Raymond Harrison, Associate Athletics Director-Academic Services. “Our coaching staffs look at their APR scores and are involved in the process, understanding that it’s here to stay. We appreciate their support and congratulate the student-athletes for a job well done.”

The APR is a point system based on scholarship student-athletes’ eligibility and retention for a pre-determined four-year time period. NCAA sports falling below the established point cutoff (930) may be subject to penalties including scholarship reductions. The data released on Wednesday includes the scholarship student-athletes on rosters from the 2007-08, 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-11 academic years.