HSSM Views
Editorial No Pass, No Play?
As the first six weeks of school comes to a finish, a number of high school athletes have been scrambling throughout the Rio Grande Valley trying to get their grade point averages above the 70 passing mark in order to comply with the University Interscholastic League’s “No Pass, No Play” rule. According to the UIL, any student contending in whichever UIL event may regain “eligibility an unlimited number of times throughout the school year. Passing means a minimum grade of 70 on all courses except identified advanced classes”. Ineligible means that students must “wait” seven calendar days” after the three-week evaluation period and grading period to recuperate playing status. Is this a first-class rule? You bet! Many students assume that winning or even losing on the field means that books can wait until they accomplish something on the playing field. In the past, when this “No Pass, No Play” rule did not even exist, students who botched, would still be permitted to participate on Football
Friday nights just because they were superstar athletes. Coaches would also try to encourage teachers to pass these players just so that they can “win one for the team”. Whoopee-do! Today, student athletes who desire to attend a Division One college must achieve at least a score of a 20 on their ACT or even a high 1100 on the SAT in order
Sports Laughs
to be considered at this playing level. A good number of students who score low on their placement exams will have to attend Division II or III colleges. So much for this “star player’s” fame and glory. Student athletes must recognize that winning on the field is imperative, but you have to be triumphant in the classroom first. Will this harm a football, volleyball, basketball, or other programs?
Yes. However, it is a parent’s responsibility to inspire their own children who are reluctant with not wanting to studying before we can blame any teacher, coach, or administration. As parents, it is our job to make sure that our children understand that education in the classroom comes first, if not, then it’s No Pass, No Play!
with TDDAVE
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September 2005