Cleveland State University

College Overview

Cleveland State University (CSU) is an urban public university located in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. With a diverse student body of about 17,000 students, CSU offers a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. The university’s proximity to cultural landmarks, Lake Erie, and numerous corporate offices creates a unique blend of academic rigor and professional opportunities for students.

CSU is known for its emphasis on real-world education, providing students with practical skills across fields such as engineering, business, law, health sciences, and the arts. For student-athletes, CSU provides an enriching environment that supports both athletic and academic growth. CSU’s community spirit and emphasis on teamwork extend beyond the classroom to its athletic programs, making it an ideal choice for athletes committed to excellence on the field and in their studies.

Prospective athletes can explore more about Cleveland State University on the Cleveland State University website.

Athletic Programs and Facilities

Cleveland State University’s athletic programs compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Horizon League, providing athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level while representing CSU’s Viking spirit. The university offers several competitive sports teams, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and volleyball, along with facilities that support a comprehensive athletic training experience.

Basketball

CSU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are central to the school’s athletic culture, drawing large fan followings. Competing in the Horizon League, the CSU Vikings have built a reputation for competitive performance. The men’s team, in particular, has achieved several NCAA tournament appearances, contributing to the excitement around CSU athletics.

Soccer and Swimming

Cleveland State’s men’s and women’s soccer teams are also notable in the Horizon League, known for developing skilled athletes who bring intensity and teamwork to the field. Additionally, CSU’s swimming and diving teams enjoy a long-standing history of success, regularly competing in championships and sending athletes to national competitions.

Athletic Facilities

Cleveland State University offers top-tier athletic facilities that support training, competition, and recovery:

• Wolstein Center: CSU’s basketball teams play here, providing a professional arena experience with seating for over 13,000 fans. The Wolstein Center also hosts university events, enhancing the campus community experience.
• Krenzler Field: Home to CSU’s soccer teams, Krenzler Field is a modern outdoor venue with artificial turf, ideal for intense soccer matches and year-round training.
• Robert F. Busbey Natatorium: This Olympic-size swimming pool hosts CSU’s swimming and diving teams and offers advanced facilities for practice and meets, including championship-level amenities.

Explore more about CSU’s athletic programs and facilities on the CSU Athletics website.

Recruitment Process and Athlete Resources

The recruitment process at Cleveland State University emphasizes both athletic performance and academic potential, encouraging student-athletes to connect with coaches early and provide a comprehensive overview of their abilities.

Recruitment Process

Prospective athletes are encouraged to reach out to coaches directly via email or CSU’s official recruitment page. Athletes can increase their visibility by attending CSU-hosted sports camps or showcases, where they can demonstrate their skills and meet the coaching staff in person.

Support Resources for Athletes

CSU offers a range of support resources for its athletes to succeed academically and athletically:

• Academic Advisors: CSU provides advisors specifically for student-athletes to help them navigate their academic responsibilities while meeting NCAA requirements.
• Tutoring Services: Athletes have access to free tutoring and study groups, assisting them in balancing academics with training schedules.
• Nutrition and Health Services: CSU’s nutritionists help athletes create personalized meal plans to optimize their performance, while athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals offer injury prevention and rehabilitation services.

For more on the recruitment process and athlete resources, visit the CSU Recruitment page.

Academic Offerings and Admissions

Cleveland State University is known for offering a variety of academic programs that cater to both traditional and professional interests, including sports management, health sciences, business, and engineering. Student-athletes can pursue rigorous academic goals while competing in their respective sports.

Popular Programs for Athletes

• Sports Management: A program designed for athletes interested in careers within sports teams, marketing, and facilities management.
• Kinesiology and Exercise Science: Provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human movement and physical fitness, ideal for those interested in sports training.
• Business: CSU’s business school offers majors in fields like finance, marketing, and management, preparing athletes for careers post-graduation.

Admissions Requirements

CSU’s admissions criteria are competitive, with an emphasis on a balanced high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores. The admissions team also values extracurricular involvement and leadership skills, both of which are crucial for prospective athletes.

For more details, visit the CSU Admissions page.

Campus Life and Support for Athletes

Cleveland State University’s campus life offers student-athletes a balanced experience filled with academic, social, and athletic opportunities. Here’s what student-athletes can expect:

Housing and Meal Plans

CSU offers several housing options for students, including on-campus residence halls and university-affiliated apartments. On-campus housing helps athletes stay close to training facilities, and meal plans include high-protein options to meet the nutritional needs of athletes.

Student Organizations

With over 200 student organizations, athletes can find groups that align with their academic interests or hobbies, from professional clubs to volunteer organizations.

Balance and Support

CSU ensures that athletes have access to resources that allow them to manage their academic, athletic, and personal commitments effectively. Academic advisors and coaches collaborate to create well-balanced schedules that meet the demands of both athletics and studies.

For more information on housing and campus life, visit the CSU Campus Life page.

Profiles of Key Coaches and Staff

Cleveland State University’s coaching staff is dedicated to fostering an environment of discipline, skill-building, and support.

• Dennis Gates (Men’s Basketball Head Coach): Known for his experience and commitment to the program, Coach Gates has helped CSU basketball reach new heights, focusing on teamwork and performance.
• Kate Schilling (Women’s Soccer Head Coach): With a background in both collegiate and professional soccer, Coach Schilling brings extensive expertise to CSU’s soccer program, fostering a competitive spirit among her players.

For more details on the coaching staff, visit the CSU Coaches’ Profiles page.

Alumni Success Stories

CSU takes pride in its alumni athletes, who have gone on to succeed in professional sports and other fields.

• Norris Cole: A CSU basketball alumnus, Cole went on to play in the NBA, becoming a two-time NBA champion and showcasing the talent developed at CSU.
• Stipe Miocic: A former CSU wrestler, Miocic became a world-renowned UFC fighter, highlighting CSU’s commitment to training elite athletes.

For more alumni success stories, visit the CSU Alumni page.

Virtual Tour

Cleveland State University offers a virtual tour for prospective students and athletes, allowing them to explore the campus, athletic facilities, and student life spaces. The tour provides insights into key locations such as the Wolstein Center, Krenzler Field, and residence halls, helping athletes visualize the CSU experience.

Tips for Prospective Athletes

For athletes considering CSU, here are some practical tips:

1. Contact Coaches Early: Introduce yourself to CSU’s coaching staff as early as possible. Highlight your skills and academic achievements.
2. Schedule a Campus Visit: If possible, visit CSU to tour the facilities, meet coaches, and experience campus life.
3. Maintain Good Grades: CSU values academics as much as athletics, so make sure your grades meet admissions requirements.
4. Prepare a Professional Resume and Highlight Reel: A concise, well-edited highlight reel can make a strong impression on coaches.

For more information, visit the CSU Prospective Athletes page.