Academic success of Citrus College student athletes recognized

By Dr. Edward C. Ortell, Citrus College Governing Board Member

When Enrique Bedolla graduated from high school, he never thought he would find himself back in a classroom. However, his love for soccer led him to Citrus College.

"Being a player on the Citrus College soccer team has been a huge part of my success," he said. "The athletics program gave me the motivation I needed to get back to school after taking several years off. I don't know where I would be without it."

Now, two years after enrolling at Citrus College, Enrique has received recognition for his outstanding academic performance. In fact, he is one of 39 Citrus College student athletes who recently earned Academic All-State honors from the California Community College Athletics Association (CCCAA).

To qualify for the Academic All-State recognition, a student has to compete a year in their sport, has to have successfully completed 24 or more units, and has to have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher for all units attempted. Nominated students are automatically selected to the Academic All-State team once the CCCAA has confirmed that all criteria have been met.

A former student athlete myself, I understand the significance of Enrique's accomplishment. Balancing athletic and academic responsibilities, while also maintaining personal relationships and fulfilling external obligations, can be challenging. The long hours and many demands can make it difficult to succeed in the classroom. For this reason, I am proud that Citrus College's Athletics program makes academics a priority.

At Citrus College, there are a number of different ways that the success of student athletes is supported. For example, all incoming athletes must attend a mandatory orientation and meet all assessment requirements. In addition, they are required to meet with the college's athletics counselor to develop a student educational plan (SEP). Each subsequent semester, student athletes must meet with the counselor to update their SEP and ensure that requirements are being met.

The Citrus College Athletics program also provides an Athletic Student Success Center and a variety of programs that promote academic success. For example, the nationally recognized Scholar Baller program honors those student athletes who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They receive incentives, such as official scholar baller jersey patches and helmet stickers.

Although the global pandemic has interrupted college sports throughout the state, Citrus College's Athletics program continues to ensure that student athletes receive support. In fact, it has gone to great lengths to help students feel connected. Virtual events, such as student athlete forums, have enabled students to interact and address issues, such as mental health, study strategies and social justice. One team even had the opportunity to participate in a virtual meeting with a professional athlete.

And, as the recent Academic All-State honors prove, the program's efforts have been successful. Just ask Enrique. Thanks to the Citrus College Athletics program, he is planning to graduate at the end of the spring 2021 semester. His ultimate goal is to transfer to a four-year college and pursue a bachelor's degree in film.

"I appreciate my coaches for pushing me and showing me ways to become successful, both on and off the pitch," he says. "It has been hard work, but I know it will pay off. I'm so excited about my future and can't wait to be back on the pitch with my teammates."

Like Enrique, I am also looking forward to the day that Citrus College's sports teams can safely practice and compete together again. As the Duarte area's representative on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, I am proud of our student athletes' success and hope to report many more achievements in the years ahead.