Reasons For NCAA Athlete Representation

Posted by athletedefendermia on April 10th, 2022

Attending college on the strength of an athletic scholarship has made numerous students happy. Sure, having a record of impressive grades can get one into any of the top colleges across the nation, but an average or poor student always finds it difficult to match the criteria. Paying for 2 to 4 years is usually not an option as it could be enormously expensive. The best way for students who excel in sports is to win a scholarship that requires the concerned individual to represent the institution on the playing field as and when needed.

The coach is the supreme authority here who makes almost all the decisions! However, the NCAA overlooks the administration and has a multi-paged contract drawn up to be signed by the student well in advance of admissions. While this makes the concerned student feel happy and satisfied at securing a spot in a reputed institution, there are multiple pitfalls along the way too. It is advisable for the student and their parents/guardians to go through the contract carefully and ask questions if plagued with doubts. Failure to understand the legal jargon may be counterproductive many a time, with instances of career prospects being ruined forever. Experts recommend having an NCAA athlete representation right from Day 1, as any contract violation may result in the financial aid being withdrawn at once.

Discussing the problem areas with the coach well in advance may help one retain the scholarship for the specified period. However, the student has the onus of proving eligibility time and again to secure financial assistance all through college.

It is best to be on good terms with the appointed coach. Trying too hard to please may create controversies! Student-athletes often have their scholarship money stopped midway as the coach finds them to be:

Ineligible- The scholarship is granted to a student-athlete for a specific number of years, usually ranging between 1 to 5 years. NCAA does not agree to cease granting scholarships or reducing the amount mid-way. Unfortunately, such instances have occurred with the coach stating that the student is ineligible to receive the scholarship. Visa issues for international students and failing one’s grades, or resorting to drugs are considered good reasons to revoke the scholarship.

Fraud- It is customary for the student-athlete to sign a letter of intent and the financial agreement before being accepted by the institution. The associated terms must be kept for the entire period as specified in the documents. The coach may stop providing financial aid when the student fails to show up for practice sessions or appear for the match despite accepting the money.

Involved in Misconduct- A student is responsible for upholding the laws and retaining the reputation of the school/college. Incidents of drinking on campus or being arrested for a criminal offense are a strict no-no. Getting into a fight with fellow students both on and off the field are serious charges that cannot be ignored either.

A student-athlete may consider NCAA sports litigation when the legal representative finds merit in the complaints.