Paying College Athletes: A Fairer System
For years, the NCAA has debated the issue of paying college athletes. The NCAA, as a regulatory body, does not have a direct relationship with student-athletes; the relationship is between the school and the athletes. Recently, the NCAA has eased some restrictions, allowing student-athletes to earn income from sources like name, image, and likeness (NIL). This article will explore the complexities of the current system and propose a fairer approach.
The Current System
According to CBS Sports, outside employment is permitted, but it must be done on a comparable basis to the market rate for similar services. However, the NCAA denies paid salaries or direct cash incomes, as these could lead to bargaining and players selecting schools based solely on financial incentives, rather than academic opportunities. This raises concerns about the equity and fairness in the current system.
Proposed Changes
Instead of individual salaries, a more equitable solution could be to introduce an expense budget for student-athletes, perhaps in the form of a per diem. This would provide athletes with the financial support to cover additional expenses like travel and food, beyond what scholarships typically cover. Schools would be mandated to provide this per diem at a percentage of the undergraduate tuition cost. This ensures that all schools contribute equally and fairly.
Furthermore, student-athletes should receive royalties when their name, image, and likeness (NIL) are used in official merchandise or licensing agreements. Schools already profit from these products, so it only makes sense for athletes to benefit from these earnings as well. The amount of royalties would be determined by a percentage of the contract negotiated by the school and should be a standardized number to avoid disputes among athletes.
It's important to note that athlete representatives should not negotiate the amounts of royalties, as it could lead to a situation where 65 football players demand different amounts, ultimately resulting in unsatisfactory outcomes. A standardized number, based on a percentage of the contract, would ensure fairness and consistency.
Conclusion
The current system of paying college athletes needs reform to ensure fairness and equal opportunities. By providing an expense budget in the form of a per diem and royalities, the NCAA can create a more equitable environment. These changes would not only benefit the athletes but also the schools, as they are already profiting from the athletes' efforts.
In conclusion, while the NCAA has taken steps to allow student-athletes to earn income from NIL, more needs to be done to ensure a fair and equitable system. By implementing these proposed changes, the NCAA can help create a more just and supportive environment for its student-athletes.