As a freshman in college, I have quickly realized the true cost of college is far more deceptive than I thought. With books, meals and extra expenses that pile up throughout the semester, the cost of tuition and housing becomes far different than the cost of actual attendance. Many people think that the athletes recruited to Division I programs are virtually princes on campus with superfluous sums of money generously doled out by the NCAA. However, a recent study by the National College Players Association found that the shortfall between the cost of attendance and the “full scholarships” disbursed to Division I athletes can amount to a staggering $6,000 annually.
There are several problems with this scholarship shortfall. These universities lure kids to attend their programs, sometimes as young as 14 years old, promising a “full ride” that is nonexistent. In fact, the NCAA prohibits universities from disbursing scholarships that cover the full cost of attendance. Many of these kids are economically disadvantaged, and paying for the difference their scholarship does not cover puts a strain on their family that nobody anticipated. Furthermore, the talented play of these athletes is a main source of revenue for both their university and the NCAA; all the while the mounting credit card bills shatter guarantees of a free education.
I feel that the promises recruiters make to these talented young people and their families should be kept. These athletes not only create huge revenue for their respective schools, but are the sole reason that the NCAA exists in the first place. The NCAA is a business, and should compensate its labor, the athletes, fairly and without deception.
For more information visit: http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/study-scholarship-shortfall-numbers-reveal-college-athletes-pay-play-535079194/
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I never knew that there was so much monetarily that wasn't covered under these "full scholarships." I definitely feel that the scholarships for athletes should cover all the essentials such as dorm housing, tuition, books, and on-campus dining. I don't feel that the scholarships should include other expenses because gaining a free education should be reward enough for the work they do on the field and court. But, I do admit that these scholarships have the potential to let some of these disadvantaged students escape the cycle of poverty experienced by their parents in the past.
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