NCAA Eligibility: Thoughts anyone ?

[hippiechick]

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050917/SPORTS/509170415

Take 1 class, stay eligible? NCAA: It's OK
Rules allow players to take only the credits they need to graduate.

By Michael Pointer
[e-mail]


A hamstring injury slowed Purdue free safety Kyle Smith for most of preseason. But the fifth-year senior had more time than usual to concentrate on his rehabilitation when classes started Aug. 22.

Smith is taking just one class this semester, a three-hour psychology course. It's all he needs to earn a law and society degree in December. NCAA rules allow him such a light course load because he is on track to graduate and is in his final year of eligibility.

"I didn't even know about it," said Smith, who started Purdue's opener against Akron on Saturday and made three tackles and broke up a pass. "They just told me I only had to take three (credit) hours, so I did.

"With the injury, it has been nice. I've been able to come over a little early for treatment. It's helped."

In most cases, athletes must take at least 12 hours during the fall and winter semesters to remain eligible. But those in their final year need to take only the number of hours necessary to finish their degree, said Brad Hostetter, the NCAA's director of member services. The NCAA doesn't keep statistics on how often it happens, but Hostetter said he hears about it occasionally.


... more at link ...

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

1. Considering the circumstances, I am fine with that.

If a senior has completed their other requirements to graduate, I see no problem with retaining eligibility with only one course because of a red-shirting. One should not be punished because of an injury.