Game Plan Flyer
Game Plan Registration

February 26, 2008

Dear Mississippi High School Principal,

Once again, in the State of Mississippi there is great excitement over the large number of Mississippi high school seniors being offered scholarships by institutions of higher learning across the state and nation. Mississippi is certainly not lacking in athletic talent. Of greater excitement is the increasing number over the last several years of those who will be academically eligible! Our goal is to make sure all of Mississippi's student-athletes are able to take advantage of the opportunity for a higher education.

New NCAA initial eligibility rules are being used to evaluate whether or not the students qualify. What does that mean for Mississippi school districts? Quite simply, it means that everyone must be educated and completely understand the new NCAA standards in order to oversee the academic plan of student-athletes. Beginning in the 8th grade, students must receive the appropriate guidance so that they not only meet graduation criteria, but also NCAA initial eligibility requirements. Furthermore, we must be proactive in preparing for ever-changing NCAA core course and initial eligibility requirements.

In an effort to provide more students in the State of Mississippi with the opportunity to use their athletic talents as a vehicle to receive a college education, we ask for your assistance in encouraging principals, coaches, athletic directors and all 8-12 counselors in your district to attend our 4th annual workshop, The Game Plan - Athletes Heading Toward Division 1 Eligibility, to be held Friday, April 11, 2008. This workshop has been developed for all professionals who work directly with student-athletes in grades 8-12 as they prepare for college admission and NCAA qualification. The seminar, which will take place on the campus of The University of Southern Mississippi, will give participants the opportunity to hear detailed information concerning NCAA core course requirements, alternate plans for students with disabilities, NCAA calculations of core GPA and test scores, ideas for motivating students, and much more. We are sorry that we must limit the number of attendees and appreciate the many participants from previous years who have already called to inquire about the event. A registration form and informational flyer are enclosed for you to duplicate and distribute throughout your school and district.

By encouraging representatives from your district to attend, you will play a vital role in our efforts to increase the opportunities for Mississippi's high school student-athletes to receive a higher education while using their athletic talents and abilities. Should you have questions or need additional information, do not hesitate to call (601)266-6020 or email Tracy.Robinson@usm.edu. Information is also available at www.southernmiss.com. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Tracy D. Robinson, Director