From State Championship Competition to College Progress: SUU Expands Academic Credit Opportunities for UHSAA High School Athletes

When high school student-athletes travel to Southern Utah University (SUU) to compete in a Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) state tournament, they aren't just competing for a championship trophy. They are entering a campus community ready to invest in their future. Building on its successful academic credit program for Utah Summer Games participants, SUU is expanding the initiative to grant three elective credits, for a $30 processing fee, to high school student-athletes competing in UHSAA-sanctioned events hosted on the SUU campus this Fall.

"I really appreciated the opportunity to get a jump start on my education while competing in a sport I love," explained Cooper Heath, a senior at Parowan High School who ran the 400-meter track event this summer. "Earning three SUU credits through the Utah Summer Games this year, combined with three credits from my junior year, put me at six college credits before even starting my senior year."

Heath joins roughly 80 high school student-athletes who have already taken advantage of this innovative pathway to kickstart their college careers. He will add those six competition credits to five other SUU concurrent enrollment classes he is taking throughout his senior year, putting him well ahead as he prepares for life after graduation.

"Every time a student-athlete competes on our campus, we want them to feel immediately at home as part of the T-Bird family," said Jon Oglesby, Assistant Vice President of Sports and Destination Events at Southern Utah University. "Extending this initiative to UHSAA tournament participants strengthens SUU's mission of expanding educational access across the state, giving Utah high schoolers a direct, affordable, and tangible jumpstart on their higher education right here in Cedar City."

Welcoming Utah's Next Generation of T-Birds

While the thrill of postseason play brings thousands of families to Cedar City each year, SUU recognizes that the perseverance, focus, and leadership displayed on the court, track, and field represent real-world learning.

"High school athletics teach young people how to perform under pressure, collaborate toward a common goal, and build resilience. These are transferable skills and qualities that directly translate to success in college and the modern workforce," said Melinda Pfundstein, Executive Director of SUU's Community and Workforce Development Department. "By opening this opportunity to UHSAA tournament athletes, we are rolling out the red carpet for Utah's high school competitors and ensuring that their dedication on our campus pays immediate academic dividends."

UHSAA leadership echoed the impact this partnership brings to student-athletes statewide.

"Southern Utah University has long prided itself on creating outstanding postseason experiences for UHSAA member schools and student-athletes, along with producing many of the state's coaches and educators through its 'Coaching Factory' program," said Ryan Bishop, UHSAA Executive Director. "The launch of this new, innovative program to provide academic credit for student-athletes who compete in UHSAA events at SUU is another sign of their institutional commitment to providing a first-of-class, education-based activities experience in the State of Utah for kids, coaches, and families."

Program Guidelines and Participation Details

This opportunity builds upon SUU's prior academic release for Utah Summer Games participants, maintaining clear guidelines for student-athletes:

• Eligibility: High school athletes who actively compete in a UHSAA-sanctioned state tournament hosted on SUU's campus are eligible to claim the three SUU Elective Credits.
• Credit Cap & Sport Diversity: Students can earn three elective credits per eligible competition experience, up to a maximum limit of two times (six total credits max) during their high school career. To claim the second three-credit award, the student must compete in a different sport or event category, through UHSAA, USG, or a combination of both).
• Verification: Eligibility is confirmed post-event by SUU officials to ensure verified participation in tournament competition.

Claiming Your Credit

For more information on program guidelines, eligible events, and how to claim credits, please visit https://apply.suu.edu/register/uhsaa_credit or contact SUU Community and Workforce Development.

About SUU Community and Workforce Development

SUU Community and Workforce Development provides accessible, flexible, and high-impact learning pathways. Whether upskilling, reskilling, or starting your college journey, SUU is a partner in lifelong professional agility and academic success.

About the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA)

The UHSAA is the leadership organization for high school athletic and fine arts activities in Utah. The Association's purpose is to administer diverse, equitable, and quality high school activities that contribute to the educational development of student participants.

Contact Information

SUU Marketing & Communications
435-586-5400
kimberlysawyer@suu.edu