“Dumb Jock” is a well-known and often-used cliché or myth that has no real merit. Clichés are usually not acceptable in academic writing because they are poor substitutes for actual evidence. Clichés are not specific, and they do not offer strong enough commentary to prove a point. And, a myth is a widely held but false belief or idea. At OLLU, “Dumb Jock” might as well be a four-letter word.

In 2017-2018, the university recorded another year of athletic and academic excellence. The student-athletes who represent OLLU are setting a standard of excellence in their respective sports and in the classroom. Close to 50 percent of the student-athletes at OLLU recorded a 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) or better – each earning Red River Athletic Conference Scholar Athlete awards. The 13 athletic teams recorded a record overall cumulative 3.08 GPA. Plus, eight teams (women’s cross-country, volleyball, soccer, softball, track and field; men’s baseball, soccer and tennis) – the most in school history – secured NAIA Scholar Team recognition.

This is not to say the efforts of those earning below 3.0 should be diminished. In the NAIA, student-athletes must have a 2.0 GPA or better to play sports. All-in-all, the student-athlete contingent at OLLU as part of the NAIA has higher standards to maintain (see eligibility requirements) than most nonathletes. It is a fact that student-athletes must do everything that is required by nonstudent-athletes, plus play their sport and volunteer in the community.

Athletic Director and Men’s Soccer Head Coach Shane Hurley commented, “The OLLU Athletic Department provides opportunities for our student-athletes to realize their full potential. When we recruit them, we encourage them to commit to academics and athletics, as well as to their personal development and service to the community. It’s all part of the Champions of Character program.” The NAIA’s Champions of Character program is based on the values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.