Student-Athlete Labor Union
Entry #4 - Student-Athlete Labor Union
In recent times conversations surrounding the treatment of college athletes have intensified primarily focusing on compensation and healthcare. As collegiate sports continue to generate a large amount of revenue for universities and athletic programs, questions have risen regarding the distribution of profits and the welfare among student-athletes. Despite the financial success of college sports, these athletes often find themselves on the opposite end of the coaches and schools that are cashing out. Many student-athletes invest a substantial amount of time, energy, and effort into the sport they love trying to balance demanding practice schedules and travel commitments with academic responsibilities.
Dartmouth University's Men's Basketball teams' decision to form a labor union has ignited a potential movement in hopes of altering the representation of student-athletes. Many student athletes spend a majority of their time polishing their skills and representing their schools with little time to participate in other pursuits or supplement their income. While their contributions are vital to a program's success, the support and compensation they are currently receiving do not reflect their high level of commitment and dedication. Dartmouth University's Men's Basketball team’s decision to unionize presents the opportunity for student-athletes to collectively advocate for their interests and address longstanding issues affecting student-athletes.
While the formation of a union is a step towards a greater change, it is important to note important considerations and challenges along the way that must be addressed. NCAA regulations, University policies, labor laws, and other legal complexities are just a few of what the team must navigate through. Although the NLRB has acknowledged Dartmouth players are university employees after receiving scholarship funding and team apparel as compensation, Dartmouth refuses to work with its students filing an appeal for the players' organizing effort. Despite these challenges, the team has the chance to positively change the collegiate athletic landscape promoting fairness and equity within athletics.
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