TAMPA - The University of South Florida Department of Athletics will celebrate the graduation of 40 student-athletes, who will join the 5,608 USF graduates at four Spring Commencement ceremonies this weekend.

"Graduation is the most valuable result in the career of a student-athlete," said USF Director of Athletics 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."

Throughout the four ceremonies held at the Sun Dome Friday and Saturday, men's track and field will see seven Bulls graduate and softball will have six earn their bachelor's degrees. Five players will accept their degrees from baseball and four from football, volleyball, women's basketball and women's track and field. Three from men's basketball and one from men's tennis, women's golf and women's tennis will conclude their undergraduate work at USF.

In December, 21 student-athletes from 10 teams and two spirit squads participated in winter commencement.

"Graduation is a special time for those of us who work closely with the student-athletes," said USF Associate AD for Academics Amy Perkins. "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!"