University of Oklahoma Athletics
Compliance Corner: February 2011
February 15, 2011 | Athletics
Many University of Oklahoma alumni, fans and boosters operate and/or are employed by businesses frequented by student-athletes. With this in mind, we would like to remind all of our Sooner friends of the regulations regarding merchandise, services, and promotions.
Pursuant to NCAA rules, our student-athletes are unable to accept any merchandise or services at a free or reduced rate, or to receive these items in exchange for autographs or merchandise. A violation of this NCAA rule will render our student-athletes ineligible. Examples of merchandise and services include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Meals
• Clothes
• Haircuts
• Tattoos
• Car Accessories
• Jewelry
• Housing
• Loans
• Gift Cards
• Cars/Use of Cars
Receipt of merchandise or services at a free or reduced rate by student-athletes is not a violation of NCAA rules if it is demonstrated that the same free or reduced rate is available to the institution's general student body or the general public on a basis unrelated to athletics. The value of the merchandise or services provided to a student-athlete is irrelevant when determining if NCAA rules have been violated.
Please also keep in mind that while our student-athletes are prominent figures in our community, NCAA rules prohibit student-athletes from using their name or picture to promote a commercial product or business. A violation of this rule will also render our student-athletes ineligible. Examples of prohibited promotions include, but is not limited to, the following:
• Restaurants
• Car Dealerships
• Athletic Equipment
• Nutritional Supplements
• Training Centers
• Barbershops/Beauty Salons
• Tattoo Parlors
These NCAA rules preserve the principle of amateurism that makes intercollegiate athletics so unique. Please help keep our student-athletes on the fields, courts, diamonds and mats and do not offer them merchandise or services at a free or reduced rate, or ask them to promote a commercial product or business.
We hope you find this information helpful and as always, please contact the Athletics Compliance Department at (405) 325-7004 with any questions. Remember, Ask Before You Act! We appreciate your support of OU athletics and your help in ensuring we operate within NCAA rules and regulations.
Related Links: OU Compliance Online
