10 Solutions to My Problem Statement

In another post to your blog, identify 10 different solutions to the problem you previously identified. There are three types of solutions you can propose: practical, research, or multimedia. (Try to incorporate a mix of different solution genres.) Briefly (in 2-3 sentences) explain the solution. Post this to your blog by Monday, November 17th by 9:35am. 

Problem: One of the most prevalent issues amongst NCAA sports is the fact that student athletes, who are competing in an effort to promote their respective schools, may not receive pay from their school for their athletic participation, and because of this do not have access to funds for personal use.

1) The reason colleges may not pay their student athletes is because of NCAA Bylaw 12.1.2, which prohibits athletes competing in collegiate events from receiving pay for their sport. This policy needs to be changed to allow colleges to pay their athletes for their competition at school, but still keep professional athletes out of college sports. (practical)

2) NCAA should not change Bylaw 12.1.2, but should further regulate the hours that a coach can require his or her players to practice. This way, if student athletes wish for additional funds, they have time to have a part-time job.

3) Instead of paying athletes, colleges should research other ways that are already legal by NCAA policy and provide more amenities to student athletes.

4) Colleges should conduct a survey on their student athletes to see what they feel they are lacking and that the school could potentially provide to them. This could be done in various ways, from having coaches ask them individually to having a mass email survey. 

5) Change NCAA policies so that colleges can give whatever scholarships they can afford. Increase the budget of the athletic department so that all student athletes receive a full scholarship (room and board included). Not all athletes receive a full scholarship, so this would help to alleviate financial stress.

6) If the budget of the athletic department cannot be increased, cut some sports teams so that all remaining athletes receive a full scholarship. Although this takes away opportunities for some student athletes, it provides a greater opportunity to the students that would remain.

7) Come up with a set of criteria for which a student athlete is eligible for a full scholarship. If student athletes are struggling financially, and they meet the criteria, they will be rewarded a full scholarship. Although this does not eliminate the need for funds for personal reasons, it will relieve financial stress for those who need it most.

8) Create jobs on campus that are designed for student athletes. For example, the school cafeteria could hire student athletes to assist with clean up or serving, and because they are being employed through the school, their work hours would be based off of their practice and study schedule.

9) Allow student athletes to accept money for autographs. This way, the athletes that are bringing in the most money for the school are compensated for their time and the utilization of their name.

10) Eliminate athletic programs. This would completely eradicate the problem.