Photo Gallery of the Graduates

TAMPA ?A class of 20-plus student athletes were among the 3,712 graduates that that put the final stamp on their academic careers at the University of South Florida Winter Commencement Saturday.

“Graduation is the most valuable result in the career of a student-athlete," said USF Athletics Director Doug Woolard. “Each of our student athletes should be commended for their hard work and dedication in pursuing their respective degrees.

“We have a great young group of student-athletes that are about to embark on their professional careers," Woolard added. “I am confident they will be embraced by the USF and Tampa Bay communities, not only for what they have achieved, but also for the positive impact they will have in shaping the future.”

Athletes from five different USF teams ? football, men's soccer, volleyball, men's golf and men's tennis ? took part in Saturday's ceremonies.

“Graduation is a special time for those of us who work closely with the student-athletes,” said USF Associate AD for Academics Amy Haworth. “We have the privilege of participating in the development of these very special young men and women as they evolve into promising young professionals. It is always exciting to watch as they close out this chapter of their lives and look forward to great futures.”

Although this may be a life-altering transition and a memorable time for these student-athletes, the toss of the tassel to the other side of the cap means more than just a testament of hard work and dedication. It also shows the ability to be a team player as well as the tenacity to succeed in competition amongst the best in the nation.

No matter where the future takes each and every student-athlete that graduates this spring, as Woolard proclaims, “Once a Bull, always a Bull!”