Before I head out for vacation I wanted to get this report in from the NCAA, regarding the Hurricanes' academic standing among five of its sports programs.

The NCAA reported today that UM football, baseball, women's cross country, women's golf and men's diving teams were among the most successful academically in the nation.

I, for one, am very impressed the Canes' football program has finished in the top 10 percent nationally for three consecutive years.

This is a geat accomplishment in and of itself, obviously, and the Hurricanes should be very proud. However, it also should help in the long run on the field. Moms and dads, who usually have a major influence in where their children play, can only be impressed by this report. And you know that UM will tout it all over the place, as it should. As a parent, you want your child -- even the ones who are almost singularly focused on football -- to have a good education and some type of assurance that the college they attend cares about more than just football.

I think this is a positive selling point for Coach Al Golden, who will run with it.

Now, if he can keep getting highly ranked recruits who strive for excellence academically, UM football will benefit.

Here's the release from UM.

Everyone have a safe, happy and healthy summer!!

SUSAN MILLER DEGNAN