GREENSBORO, N.C. – After a challenging and grueling day of practices and classes, many of UNC Greensboro's student-athletes enjoy visiting a new destination. Instead of returning to their rooms to rest and recover or visit the library to fight for a place to do work, they travel to The Academic Success Center, which benefits all student-athletes.
 
In a comforting and well-lit environment, UNCG student-athletes arrive on their own time and have access to several different options that are at their disposal such as multi-purpose spaces and the latest technology, allowing them to choose the best one based on what they have going on that day.

 

It's a welcomed and state-of-the-art space that allows student-athletes to achieve  excellence and provides a gathering space for academic sessions, leadership meetings, small group sessions, and individual studying. As evidenced by a 3.45-grade point average this past semester, the Academic Success Center has helped student-athletes reach their full potential even as they log long hours at practice.
 
It's a memorable destination and one in which student-athletes tingle with excitement before visiting because of the generosity of the numerous donors who have contributed to the UNCG Athletics' Campaign for Champions, a fundraising campaign to transform student-athlete academic and support facilities, and to recruit and retain top coaches to lead UNCG's 17 Division I athletic teams.
 
There has been $2.8 million raised toward the goal of $5 million. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the philanthropic spirit has shined and helped UNCG's 225 student-athletes reap immediate rewards. Student-athletes are already enjoying the recently completed Academic Success Center. 
 
When the student-athletes return in August, they'll love the benefits of the renovated weight room that will create a speed, strength, conditioning, and nutritional facility, which is under construction now. The third project, the Men's Basketball Nutrition Center and Player & Recruiting Lounge will be done at the end of September.
 
These upgraded facilities will allow coaches to enhance their recruiting and help student-athletes train more efficiently. The Speed, Strength and Conditioning Center provides a place, all in one area, to get everything done without transitioning. The multi-purpose surface allows student-athletes to use the weights anywhere.  

 
Once those projects are finished, the next goal is to renovate women's and men's basketball offices. The remaining $2 million will support the Sustaining Success Endowment that will provide a consistent fund source to invest in UNCG coaches.
 
These services are part of UNCG Athletics' increasing emphasis on preparing student-athletes for all aspects of championship competition and life after graduation, from pursuing their careers to being mentors in their communities. 
 
There's still time to participate and help student-athletes fulfill their dreams of competing at the Division I level as they create the memories that UNCG fans, alums, and supporters will cherish and continuously share stories for many years.
 
For more information contact the Spartan Club at SpartanClub@uncg.edu.