Following a one-year reprieve from athletics, Clark State Community College has welcomed the return of women student-athletes for a full season of volleyball, basketball and softball.
Clark State Athletic Director Ken Laake said the Clark State Eagles have full rosters and schedules for all three women’s teams this year. “The new coaching staff has worked hard recruiting, developing and maintaining their individual programs,” said Laake. “We offer athletic scholarships and greater care in supporting student-athletes academically while investing in safe and appropriate travel accommodations for each team. We also continue to improve our athletic facilities like the wellness center, gymnasium and athletic training room.”
Laake said the coaches use athletic scholarships to attract higher caliber student-athletes to Clark State, and scholarships help Clark State compete with other NJCAA colleges. “It helps us recruit a higher level of student-athlete,” he said. “But our primary focus is student-athletes who are going to graduate.”
Student-athletes complete financial aid applications to identify financial needs, and then Clark State is able to offer a partial or full scholarship based on those needs. “We want to at least match or even beat other college offers,” said Laake.
Laake said Clark State supports all of the athletic programs in an equitable manner, and Clark State athletes have the benefits of affordability and quicker access to playing time. “Development happens quicker when you play,” he said. “It allows students who are still developing physically to grow and get stronger and quicker for two more years.
Student-athlete orientation is held prior to the start of fall semester and additional workshops on topics such as health, wellness and financial planning are offered later at no cost. Clark State is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association and competes in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference.
Laake said Clark State offers many marketable degree options, and every three weeks student- athletes are required to have their grades evaluated. Student-athletes are also required to be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester to remain eligible to play.
Practice is already underway for the women’s and men’s basketball seasons. Both teams will tip-off at home in season openers against West Virginia Parkersburg on October 31.
For more information, schedules and rosters, visit: clarkstateeagles.com.