What it takes to play NCAA Division I sports

High school athletes who have aspirations of playing college sports need to know the requirements academically. And their parents should also know.

Here's the link to the NCAA requirements.

Among the requirements to play Division I for those entering college in August of 2016 or later:

Complete 16 core courses, including 10 before your seventh semester.

Have a minimum 2.3 grade-point average in core courses.

Earn a combined SAT or ACT score that matches core-course GPA on a sliding scale.

Among the core courses required: Four years of English; three years of math (Algebra or higher); two years of physical science; one year additional English, math or physical science; two years of social science; four years of additional courses.

In other words, you better focus on school as much as lifting weights or shooting free throws.

-- Eric Sondheimer