International Prospective Student-Athletes and NCAA Division I Amateurism

Abstract

This paper summarises a research stream dealing with the US system of amateur intercollegiate sport and its relation to International Prospective Student-Athletes (IPSAs). Crucial differences exist between the US ‘clear demarcation’ of commercial pro sport and amateurism as applied by National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I (NCAA DI) on one hand, and the International club-based federalised structure, with more connections between professional and amateur clubs on the other. Thus, IPSAs, NCAA staff, and member institutions experience problems. As litigation has not resolved these challenges, regulatory evolution and policy recommendations are in order to achieve greater balance among NCAA DI membership.

Keywords: NCAA, Amateurism, International Student Athletes, Constitutional Law, Compliance, Recruiting, Eligibility

JEL Classification: K00, K10, K19, K20, K29, K30, K39, K40, K41, K49