Student Athlete Compensation Within the NCAA and Revenue Generating College Athletics

Abstract

This paper studies the current system of compensation for student athletes that participate under the NCAA and possible alternatives to the current system. By looking at NCAA guidelines, athletic departments and current compensation, a basis is present to evaluate possibly alternatives and solutions to accurately compensate college athletes for the services they provide. Recent media reports and lawsuits have been pressing for increasing compensation for student athletes and this paper addresses where change could occur by developing ideas that have been presented in the discussion on student athlete compensation. By taking the perspective of the student athlete on the system, we can identify where the system currently falls short. The conclusion draws the best possible solution to changing the current system based on research looking at the NCAA, athletic departments and the rules and regulations surrounding college athletics.