HCA: NCAA gives spring athletes extra year of eligibility

The NCAA Division 1 Council voted Monday that spring sport athletes would be given another year of eligibility due to the shortened season caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. The ruling does clear up some of the questions that have been asked and it may cause even more confusion and possibly some upset seniors.

While the vote gave spring sport athletes regardless of their year in school to get the lost season back, it does not guarantee the current seniors financial aid if they decide to return. A few weeks ago I wrote this that included each of the seniors in the respective sports.

When it comes to financial aid and scholarships it will be determined by the school. The amount of aid that the athlete can receive will range from nothing to the same amount they had been receiving. Meaning that an athlete on a 50% scholarship cannot come back on a full scholarship. The NCAA does have a Student Assistance fund that will help pay for scholarships for students who take advantage of the extra year.

As for the few sports that have roster limits such as baseball, the NCAA will adjust roster and scholarship limits for next season to avoid players losing their scholarships or getting cut. This extension and ruling will be in effect for just next season and scholarship and roster limits will return to normal in 2022.

The ruling unfortunately does not apply to those that had their winter season cut short including those in basketball and hockey.

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NCAA:

NCAA to give spring sport athletes extra year of eligibility

The NCAA will permit spring sport athletes – such as baseball, softball and lacrosse players – who had their seasons shortened by the coronavirus outbreak to have an additional year of eligibility.

Football:

WSU teammates reflect on legacy of late Cougars DB Bryce Beekman

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