Division III Week Student Spotlight – Mike Jones

This week is NCAA Division III Week and member institutions across the country are celebrating the 10th-year event. 

Division III Week, which runs from Monday through Sunday, is intended to recognize the academic and athletic accomplishments as well as the campus leadership and community service efforts of Division III student-athletes. 

As part of Huntingdon College's participation in Division III Week, six student-athletes will be featured this week. Mike Jones is today's featured student-athlete.

By Adam Mann  

Sports Information Assistant  

Name: Mike Jones

Year: Senior

Hometown: Fayetteville, Ga.

Major: Business Administration

Sports: Men's Lacrosse                                 

Athletic Accomplishments: Jones is a four-year player for the men's lacrosse team and has started in 55 games during his career. He was a starter on the first USA South Athletic Conference men's lacrosse championship team and Huntingdon's first NCAA playoff team in 2018. During his freshmen and sophomore seasons, the Hawks won their first 16 games against conference opponents. In four seasons as a defender, he has recorded 87 ground balls, 50 caused turnovers and two assists. This season, he leads Huntingdon with 27 ground balls and 18 caused turnovers.

Academic Achievements and Campus Activities: Jones has been a member of the Dean's List of High Honors four times and is a two-time USA South All-Academic selection.

What made you feel like Huntingdon was the right place for you? "One of my friends attended college and played lacrosse. He told me he enjoyed it here so I decided to visit. The smaller campus was very appealing to me."

As a student-athlete, what is your impression of Division III now compared to your first season? "When I got here I thought it was going to be very stressful to balance being a student and an athlete. After being here for four years, I've realized that Division III is perfect for playing the sport you love while being able to have time to do your class work and also having time to relax and enjoy a social life."                                  

What advice would you give our current underclassmen and incoming recruits to better prepare them for the next few years?  "It is very important to go to class and pay attention so you will be able to do your assignments with ease. If you do your homework early, you will have more free time throughout the week. Try not to overload your schedule so you do not burn out in the middle of the semester."

How has your experience at Huntingdon prepared you for life after Huntingdon? "Huntingdon College has so many things that have allowed me to get ready for the future. My advisors are always looking out for me and helping me look for things to do when I graduate. The CCV is always sending out emails with job opportunities and interview tips. I feel like this college does a great job of helping prepare students to step into the real world and secure a job."