A student athlete is an individual who participates in or is eligible to participate in intercollegiate sports. This includes those who may qualify in the future. However, if a person is permanently ineligible to take part in a specific sport, they are not considered a student athlete for that sport.
The term "student athlete" is commonly used in legal contexts related to sports and education. It is significant in areas such as:
Understanding this term is essential for individuals navigating eligibility requirements, scholarships, and compliance with NCAA regulations. Users can manage related forms and agreements through resources like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A college freshman who plays on the university's soccer team is considered a student athlete as they are actively participating in intercollegiate sports.
Example 2: A high school senior who has signed a letter of intent to play football at a college next year is also a student athlete, as they are eligible to engage in intercollegiate sports in the future. (hypothetical example)
According to 15 USCS § 7801 (9), the definition of a student athlete is established. This statute outlines the criteria for eligibility and participation in intercollegiate sports.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Student Athlete | An individual eligible for intercollegiate sports | Focuses on eligibility and participation in college sports |
| Athlete | A person who competes in sports | Does not specify eligibility or educational status |
| Scholar-Athlete | A student athlete who excels academically | Emphasizes academic performance alongside sports |
If you are a student athlete or are considering becoming one, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Here are steps you can take:
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| Eligibility Criteria | Active participation or potential future participation in intercollegiate sports |
| Common Issues | Scholarship eligibility, compliance with NCAA regulations |
| Legal Resources | US Legal Forms, NCAA guidelines |
A student athlete is specifically someone who is eligible to participate in college sports, while a regular athlete can be anyone who competes in sports, regardless of their educational status.