NCPA urges Congress to protect college athletes from exploitation and ensure rights

On April 8, 2025, the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce convened to discuss the future of college sports, focusing on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the rights of student-athletes. The meeting highlighted critical issues surrounding the financial sustainability of college athletics and the welfare of student-athletes, particularly in light of the growing commercialization of college sports.

A significant theme emerged regarding the financial implications of treating student-athletes as employees. Testimonies revealed that many mid-major institutions and non-revenue sports lack the financial resources to support an employment model for athletes. This shift could lead to the elimination of sports programs, jeopardizing opportunities for future generations of student-athletes. Advocates emphasized the need to enhance support and resources for athletes rather than implement systems that could limit access and opportunities.

Ramogi Hooma, executive director of the National College Players Association (NCPA), underscored the disparity in the college sports industry, where coaches earn millions while athletes, who generate substantial revenue, lack basic rights and protections. Hooma pointed out that while the conversation around athlete employment is important, it is not the most urgent issue facing college sports today. Instead, he called attention to the predatory practices within the NCAA that exploit athletes physically and economically, citing alarming statistics about athlete safety and abuse.

Hooma's testimony included harrowing accounts of athletes who suffered preventable injuries and abuse, emphasizing the need for accountability and reform. He criticized the NCAA for its lack of responsibility in protecting athletes and urged Congress to intervene by enforcing safety standards and ensuring that athletes have a voice in discussions that affect their lives.

Jackie McWilliams Parker, a seasoned figure in college athletics, also contributed to the discussion, sharing her experiences and the transformative power of college sports. Her testimony reinforced the notion that college athletics should prioritize the well-being and development of student-athletes over financial gain.

The meeting concluded with a call for comprehensive reform in college sports, focusing on athlete safety and rights. As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, the discussions from this meeting will likely influence future legislation and the ongoing debate about the role of student-athletes in a billion-dollar industry. The committee's commitment to addressing these pressing issues signals a potential shift towards greater protections and opportunities for student-athletes in the years to come.