I am periodically asked questions about whether prize money can be accepted while a student athlete - I hope this helps clarify. If you have any questions or concerns - I would strongly encourage you to engage your coach, athletic director and if need be, the governing body - the GHSA or GISA for additional clarification. Todd Smoot is not an expert on these rules. Each individual is responsible for their own eligibility. It is my interpretation of the rules that no student athlete should accept prize money for competing in an event. A student-athlete may be invited to participate in an event without paying an entry fee - but that is the extent of the monetary transfer. One fact I can share with you is that ignorance of the rules is not an acceptable defense. Parents, coaches and student athletes - know the rules. The following is from the GHSA by-laws: 1.90 - AMATEUR STATUS/AWARDS 1.91 A student who represents a school in interscholastic athletic competition shall be an amateur in that activity. An amateur athlete is one who engages in athletic competition solely for the physical, mental, social, and pleasure benefits derived therefrom. Accepting nominal, standard fees or salary for instructing, supervising, or officiating in an organized youth sports program or recreation, playground or camp activity, shall not jeopardize an athletes amateur status. Reasonable compensation derived from private lessons in a sport is permissible. 1.92 An athlete forfeits amateur status in a sport by: competing for money or other monetary compensations except for reasonable allowances for travel, meals, and lodging. NOTE: Accepting expense allowances authorized by the United States Olympic Committee for Olympic Development Programs is acceptable for GHSA students. receiving any award or prize of monetary value which has not been approved by the GHSA. capitalizing on athletic fame by receiving money or gifts with monetary value except college scholarships. signing a professional playing contract in any sport, or hiring an agent to manage his/her athletic career. 1.93 Only awards approved by the GHSA may be accepted by a high school student-athlete as a result of participation in school or non-school competition in a sport recognized by the GHSA.
Posted on: Sat, 05 Jul 2014 22:29:28 +0000
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