College Athletics: Career vs. Experience

The Debate Some college athletes and their supporters have debated over the years that students should be paid a salary. Those who are in disagreement argue that intercollegiate athletics should be viewed as one part of the college experience and not a career. They express that athletes are already receiving payment in the form of scholarships. But is it enough? Most scholarships cover approximately $20,000 to $35,000 worth of college expenses, including books, fees, tuition, and room and board (Brian, 2014).
The Numbers
Looking at the research provided by the National Athletic Trainer’s association, approximately 200,000 injuries are reported by college athletes caused by the strenuous nature of their sport (Thomas, 2014). Nearly 30% of these injuries have been chalked up to “over-use” injuries (injuries caused by long training sessions and repetitive motions), with women making up 62% of those injuries, and are more commonly found in low-contact sports. “Overuse injuries may present not only physical challenges but also psychological ones that could significantly affect an athlete’s recovery and performance” said Tracey Covassin, a co-author of a study for the Journal of Athletic Training publication that researches injuries and their impact on college athletes (Cody, 2012).
Another aspect of this problem that needs attention is what happens to these student athletes that have career-ending or long-term disabilities due to injuries sustained during their college careers. Although policies exist to include coverage of expenses while the injured athletes are in rehabilitation post-surgery, the National Collegiate Athletic Association will not acquire any responsibility for costs or health care expenses that are related to the long-term effects that can develop into chronic conditions in the athletes’ future (Peterson,