Jeffrey S. Smolka Endowed Scholarships
Founded in 2015 through a generous gift from Jeffrey S. Smolka, the Smolka Rugby Scholarship Endowment has provided substantial financial support to more than 50 Gamecock rugby players. Since it was founded, financial aid extended through the program has exceeded $1,000,000.
The fund extends scholarship aid to incoming freshmen, returning players and graduate students each year. Currently (January 2024) 30 Gamecocks benefit from the Smolka Scholarship, which extends near in-state tuition cost to out-of-state students. Recipients of the scholarship must maintain a 3.0 grade point average, be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits and embrace the program's culture.
Existing player-candidates are nominated by the head coach and reviewed by a scholarship committee. Prospective freshman must be accepted and apply through the form below. Recommendation letters are encouraged. A freshman scholarship committee will select and notify winners.
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The Smolka Scholarships also extends $500 grants to in-state students and offers "Ambassador Scholarships" to international students, which covers rugby related expenses.
Net tuition costs savings to out-of-state rugby players who have exhibited a commitment to the South Carolina Men’s Rugby program and our culture, are substantial.
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