Aida Mitrache: From Online Learning to NCAA Success 

Aida Mitrache: From Online Learning to NCAA Success 

Balancing academics and athletics are a challenge for anyone, especially for student-athletes aiming for collegiate success. The Digital Academy of Florida (DAOF) supports these ambitious students with its NCAA-approved online curriculum and flexible learning environment, helping them excel in both sports and academics. 

One example of DAOF’s impact on students is Aida Mitrache, a tennis prodigy from Boca Raton, Florida. Ranked 56th nationally in her class, Aida has been a trailblazer for student-athletes in online education. Born in Romania, Aida’s journey to success began when her family moved to the United States in 2017. Settling in Florida, she trained under the renowned Romanian tennis coach Florin Ionescu while balancing her academic goals. 

“DAOF provided me with the flexibility I needed to focus on my training while maintaining my academic excellence,” Aida explains. “It allowed me to compete at my best and prepare for college-level athletics.” 

After graduating in May 2023, Aida made history as DAOF’s first student to earn an NCAA scholarship, securing her spot-on Coastal Carolina University’s tennis team. Aida’s ultimate goal? To be a professional tennis player while building on the academic foundation she established at DAOF. 

Why NCAA Accreditation Matters 

NCAA schools collectively award nearly $3.5 billion in athletic scholarships every year, giving student-athletes a pathway to higher education and athletic achievement. Before Aida’s milestone, DAOF students weren’t eligible for NCAA scholarships. Recognizing the need to support student-athletes better, DAOF Principal Fred Whitaker worked hard to get the school’s core curriculum NCAA-approved.  

“Thanks to Aida’s situation, we now have NCAA-approval, opening doors for all of our student-athletes,” Whitaker shares. “This is a game-changer for students in sports like tennis, football, gymnastics, swimming, and more.” 

Flexible Online Learning for Busy Student-Athletes 

The Digital Academy of Florida (DAOF) provides student-athletes with the flexibility to balance academics and sports. Its online platform allows students to complete coursework at their own pace, whether during training breaks or on the road. With an NCAA-approved curriculum in core subjects, DAOF ensures students stay academically on track and eligible for collegiate sports. 

Families choose DAOF for its flexibility, safety, and personalized learning. Students can balance academics with athletics, work at their own pace, and prepare for college with support from experienced educators. Principal Whitaker notes, “Families love the control they have over their school environment. It’s a safe, flexible option for thriving academically while pursuing passions.” 

Aida’s Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation 

Aida Mitrache’s success has set a precedent for what’s possible when education and athletics come together. As DAOF continues to support student-athletes with its NCAA-accredited program, more students will have the chance to follow in Aida’s footsteps, achieving excellence in both academics and sports. 

Want to learn more about how DAOF can help your student-athlete succeed? 

Visit Digital Academy of Florida to explore its programs and see how online learning can open doors to a brighter future. 

Back to Blog