RONALD A. SMITH. Pay for Play: A History of Big-Time College Athletic Reform.

Abstract

Reform to temper professionalism and commercialism in big-time college athletics has been a persistent effort for more than a century. But with billions of dollars and institutional reputations at stake, those associated with colleges and universities are loath to enact meaningful reform. Ronald A. Smith surveys the history of intercollegiate athletic reform by examining the actions of students, faculty, college presidents, governing bodies, graduates, and outsiders. Although reform began as an effort to maintain a competitive balance, it soon tackled academic and institutional standards and the departure of college athletics from amateurism. However, these reforms have accomplished little with regard to these goals. Reform efforts started after the first intercollegiate competitions by students and student-led organizations as these groups set rules and determined eligibility for participation in rowing, baseball, and football competitions. Concern over athletes missing classes for away games, violence in football, and growing professionalism and commercialism spurred faculty to become involved in reforming college athletics. Marginalized by college presidents and alumni, faculty committees were seldom able to enact effective reforms. Serious reform placed a program at a competitive disadvantage, and few presidents did more than talk about reform. An institution's image and prestige took precedence over amateurism and academics. Most presidents were cheerleaders, agreeing with William Slocum at Colorado College who stated his college would “never gain the recognition that it deserves until it has a winning football team” (p. 38).