Training Today, Competing Tomorrow: AZVA’s NCAA Accreditation Opens Big Doors 

Training Today, Competing Tomorrow: AZVA’s NCAA Accreditation Opens Big Doors 

As the 2026 Winter Olympics kick off this month, fans around the world are watching athletes who have spent years preparing for their moment on the global stage. Their success is rooted in not only talent, but structure, guidance and meeting the highest athletic standards along the way. This essential foundation is the same for students who dream of competing in college athletics, which is why it was so exciting when Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) became an NCAA certified school this winter. 

Now, AZVA can better support athletes who plan to or dream of competing at a higher level in college, preparing students academically and athletically. 

AZVA Executive Director, Forrest Smith, who is an avid golfer, says that the NCAA certification improves AZVA’s ability to prepare students for the next level of competition. “It’s more than a credential; it’s a gateway to new opportunities for our student-athletes, with no barriers in their way,” said Smith.  

Achieving NCAA certification underscores AZVA’s commitment to providing the academic structure student-athletes need while still delivering an adaptable learning environment that helps them thrive both in the classroom and in their sport. 

To be certified, the NCAA looked closely at AZVA’s curriculum rigor, instructional methods, assessments, grading policies and teacher involvement. Sixteen AZVA courses were approved by the NCAA as meeting its core requirements, giving student-athletes the academic foundation they need to advance their athletic careers and transition confidently to Division I, II, or III programs.  

AZVA’s flexibility allows student athletes and families to adapt their school schedule depending on day-to-day and extracurricular activities. Many of these AZVA athletes compete in hockey, golf, gymnastics or tennis. 

Teaching Team and Learning Coach, Kristen Williams said she’s focused on helping prospective college-bound athletes accelerate their performance and gain scholarships for future success. Adding, “we can now ensure that every student-athlete at AZVA has a seamless, academically supported path to pursue those goals.”  

For more information, or to enroll at AZVA visit https://enrollmentportal.k12.com