The notion of paying college athletes is becoming more controversial by the day. The NCAA isn’t supportive of the idea, but some athletes think it’s time they get paid.
Why College Players Need to be Paid
The NCAA makes nearly $500 million yearly. This doesn’t even factor in their earnings from the football bowls, which run around $300 million. For some athletes, it doesn’t seem fair. Their jerseys are being sold, and yet they don’t get a cent. NCAA video games sell, but the players don’t get a slice of the revenue.
An athlete sees his / her coach making money. Some of these
contracts are worth millions of dollars. Those in favor of paying college athletes say it’s necessary to even things out. After all, it’s the athletes who are playing. They’re the ones who are risking injury in the games.
It’s their exploits in the game that draws in the crowds. If their schools make millions from sponsorship deals, why can’t the players get a share? It hardly seems right; you work hard and you don’t get paid. What’s worse is that other entities (the school, the video game maker etc) are raking in the dough.
Scholarships for College Athletes
Those against this proposal offer the following arguments. Paying college athletes isn’t necessary because they’re being compensated for. These athletes receive scholarships. Not only that, but
schools are spending millions to develop programs to support these athletes. The NCAA alone is spending nearly $800 million over a ten year period to implement these projects.
Legal Issues
If these players are paid, it will also open up a slew of legal issues. What makes athletes different from engineering or law students? If this law is passed, it will be challenged in courts all across the country.
It’s true that these players face greater health risks than other students. But paying college athletes isn’t the answer. The NCAA and the schools spend millions for the health benefits of these students. In addition, travel costs and other miscellaneous expenses are covered too.
Student Athlete Opportunity Fund
Initiated in 2003, it gives financial help for student athletes who can’t compete due to injury sustained. The program can be used to cover costs at home and when traveling. Other expenses like computers, school equipment and medication are also covered. Degree completion, clothing and other items are also included.
Paid to Play
Others argue that the offerings are limited. These athletes are recruited to play. What makes them different from pro players? Some feel there’s no difference at all. The college players are being
used by the school to provide entertainment for the people.
Moreover the schools and the NCAA make money from it.
What makes this situation unique from that in the NBA or NFL? That’s why, it’s argued, these athletes must be paid to play.
The idea of paying college athletes is still unlikely to gain the NCAA’s favor anytime soon. Nevertheless, the issue will remain as long as the schools profit from the games.
