Lady Sharks Making The Grade

On the court, Lady Sharks head coach Susan Summons is fierce and passionate. She shares the same characteristics in the classroom.

The long time Lady Sharks coach also teaches health and physical education at Kendall Campus, where she stresses the importance of academic excellence to her players.

“Teachers are coaches that focus on coaching their students to success and helping students reach their full potential.” Summons said.

Summons focuses on not only keeping her players academically eligible, but academically sound.

According to the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE), more than 85% of MDC’s student athletes go on to compete at four-year institutions. For Women’s Basketball the graduation percentile in 2014 was 90% among all players.

This year’s team, which is 4-3, boasts some notable academic talent.

Freshman point guard Jamaria Williams received honor roll status at North Lawndale College Prep in Chicago, Illinois. Freshman point guard Ashley Johnson graduated with honors at P.K. Yonge in Gainesville. Sophomore guard Shatara Jackson reached the dean’s list by keeping a GPA of 3.5 during her years at Edward White High school in Jacksonville.

Summons says that finding players who give their all in the classroom and on the court, makes them more attractive, because they tend to have the skills that can give them an edge to be more successful throughout their overall collegiate career.

“It’s helpful to know that the players you recruit are academically focused on being the best kind of student, and are willing to adhere to vigorous and demanding schedule to be that excellent student with a good grade point average,” Summons said.

Sophomore center Jaiveonna Norris, who is averaging 13.5 points, 10 rebounds per game, and 3.7 blocks per game this year, understands the importance of hitting the books.

“It’s tough, you have to make a lot of sacrifices,” Norris said. “If I get my work done early, everything else balances out.”