Student-athletes can't profit off their fame in college sports, but coaches are are starting to cash in and Urban Meyer is one of the first.
Ohio State will soon be allowed to profit from the commercial use of the name and popular phrases tied to the Buckeyes coach, according to a recent story from USA TODAY.
Ohio State is in the process of trademarking coach Urban Meyer's name
and the phrase "Urban Meyer Knows," U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
records show.
Meyer might be one of the firsts, but he isn't alone.
Kansas State has a detailed licensing agreement to use
the
name and likeness of Bill Snyder. Washington coach Steve Sarkisian
negotiated the right to approve all uses of his name, voice, signature
or likeness.
College players at showcase programs have become more exposed to fame and fortune than ever. While students cannot profit off their renown, more and more coaches are reaping rewards from use of their name and image.
We all know 'life isn't fair'... But is it right that students must abide by such strict rules put in place by the NCAA to retain their eligibility and amateur status while coaches and schools are allowed to profit from the use of the coach's name? On top of the millions they are paid to run these programs?
Discuss.
Original story via USA TODAY.
