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Race and the Perils of the College Sports Industrial Complex

Hassan Cox

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Published in Pay To Play: Race And The Perils Of The College Sports Industrial Complex

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The college sports industrial complex is a multi-billion dollar enterprise that has a profound impact on the lives of student-athletes, particularly those of color. This article examines the ways in which race shapes the experiences of student-athletes, from recruitment to graduation. It argues that the college sports industrial complex is a system of racial inequality that perpetuates and reinforces existing social hierarchies. The article concludes by calling for a transformative approach to college sports that puts the needs of student-athletes first.

Pay to Play: Race and the Perils of the College Sports Industrial Complex

by Nicholas Hartlep

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1874 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages

Recruitment

The recruitment process for college athletes is often racially biased. Studies have shown that white athletes are more likely to be recruited by top-tier schools than athletes of color, even when they have comparable athletic ability. This is due in part to the fact that white athletes are more likely to come from affluent families who can afford to pay for expensive club teams and private coaching. They are also more likely to have access to elite high schools that have strong relationships with college coaches.

As a result of these biases, athletes of color are often forced to attend less prestigious schools that offer fewer athletic opportunities. This can have a significant impact on their ability to develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Exploitation

Once student-athletes arrive on campus, they are often subjected to a system of exploitation that is based on race. Black athletes, in particular, are often treated as commodities to be used for the benefit of the university. They are pressured to play through injuries, and they are often denied the academic support they need to succeed.

In addition, black athletes are often subjected to racist abuse from fans and coaches. They may be called names, threatened with violence, and even subjected to physical attacks. This type of abuse can have a devastating impact on their mental and emotional health.

Graduation

The graduation rate for black student-athletes is significantly lower than the graduation rate for white student-athletes. This is due in part to the fact that black student-athletes are more likely to come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They may also be more likely to face academic challenges, such as learning disabilities and language barriers.

However, the low graduation rate for black student-athletes is also due to the fact that they are often not given the support they need to succeed. They may not have access to quality tutoring and counseling services. They may also be pressured to put athletics ahead of their academics.

The need for a transformative approach

The college sports industrial complex is a system of racial inequality that perpetuates and reinforces existing social hierarchies. It is a system that exploits black athletes and denies them the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We need a transformative approach to college sports that puts the needs of student-athletes first. This approach would include:

* Increasing funding for academic support services for student-athletes. * Establishing policies that protect student-athletes from exploitation and abuse. * Creating a more diverse and inclusive environment in college athletics.

By taking these steps, we can create a college sports system that is fair and just for all student-athletes, regardless of their race.

Pay to Play: Race and the Perils of the College Sports Industrial Complex

by Nicholas Hartlep

5 out of 5