Athlete or Amateur?
Should College Athletes be Compensated?
In the world of college athletics, the debate over athlete salary is an issue that never seems to go away. Since its institution in 1906, the NCAA has made it clear that college athletes can not, under any circumstances, be compensated for their athletic finesse.
As of recently, however, this tenet is dying– in California, at least. In September, 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an act barring colleges in the state from penalizing players who capitalize on money from endorsements. Though still not allowing official college-to-student payrolls, this law will ultimately provide a worthwhile stream of income for some of the most acclaimed athletes.
Many fans consider this a step in the right direction. As studies have shown, exceptional athletes not only make a name for themselves, but for their school as well. Take Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie for example; after his extraordinary, game-winning touchdown pass in 1984, during one of the most dramatic and televised NCAA games in history, applications to Boston College rose 30% in just two years. How is it fair to deny the players responsible for this accomplishment a cut of the revenue?
Though NCAA athletes are likely still far from earning athletic wages, it is hopeful that California’s act will pave the way for more schools and states across America to follow in their footsteps.
