Money in College Athletics

            There are thousands and thousands of student-athletes throughout the nation’s universities. Throughout the entire year, they work hard at their sport and give up time in order to play for their school. And what do they get in return? Most of the student-athletes receive some sort of scholarship and are asked to basically dedicate their lives to the school’s athletic program. While some of the athletes receive a “full ride”, others only receive half that amount or none and they are “walking on” the team. In this situation, these athletes are still required to work just as hard as the athletes who get the full benefits. But where are their benefits? They play the same sport, practice just as much, and still do not receive the same perks.

            This problem needs to be addressed. Athletes in all schools should have the right to benefit from their success in the form of money. This is important to me because I am good friends with college student-athletes who wish they could receive some sort of payment for their athletic achievements. They sacrifice their study time in order to support their university through athletics. Plus, they even sacrifice some of their summer break time to camps and training. In my opinion, being a college student is a full time job, but to be a student-athlete is so much more demanding and stressful with the expectation to succeed hovering over their head. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), in my opinion, really needs to step in to allow these hard working kids to reap the rewards of their success.

            This past winter, the previous Heisman Trophy winner, Johnny Manziel, was allegedly attempting to take matters in his own hands by signing mini footballs in order to get some money. It was reported that Manziel received payment for signing memorabilia in January of 2013. This is an example of a college athlete who is looking for payment for his “on the field” triumphs but cannot because of his amateur status. I personally believe that Manziel is due money from his school and from the NCAA. Why should they make a profit from his hard work and accomplishments? The National Collegiate Athletic Association should split their profit among the schools and the student-athletes. People each week pay to see the players shine in their respective sport so therefore, the athletes should be the ones who get paid. Another option is that the athletes can keep whatever money they get from endorsements and autographs. With this option, the NCAA does not have to give up any of their money and the players will be satisfied.

            In addition, most players leave their school early in order to be eligible to receive money by becoming a professional. If players get compensated while in college, they might be more inclined to stay and graduate with a degree from their university.  By addressing this problem and compensating the student-athletes, athletes will be more likely to stay in school for longer periods of time, and will avoid penalties for signing memorabilia. Ultimately, this whole situation comes down to one thing… money, and in this particular situation, I am on the athlete’s side.