I wanted to respond to the Opinion from Sen. Eric Buckson, R-Camden, about compensating athletes (“Del.’s leadership is key to NIL reform"). I am against this for numerous reasons.
First of all, most of them are already being compensated through full scholarships that include housing, food and I’m sure other benefits that most students are not given — which are worth thousands of dollars. We also know that alumni have their ways of putting in their money. I’ve heard of parents of star athletes suddenly driving Cadillacs or other expensive vehicles supplied by alumni.
Is this fair? Is this fair to the other students who have to struggle to get through college? Is this fair to a student who is studying to become a doctor or scientist and who may help millions in the future? How do you think they feel seeing some jock getting all these benefits?
Yes, I realize the athletes bring millions to a university if their team is successful. Fine. Use that money to help all the students. Make it easier for other students to help pay their tuition. When I watch some college games, especially recently, I see entitled, disrespectful athletes who are being called for unsportsmanlike conduct more than ever. I recently saw a player get disqualified for spitting on another. They seem to have no fear of actual punishment.
I’m not in favor of turning universities into employment agencies for athletes. They are there to learn, not to earn. Turn their studies into courses that may help them when they leave college and make their millions.
Stan Sipple
Felton
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
