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NCAA explores age-based eligibility plan amid redshirt debate
TL;DR
The NCAA is considering an age-based eligibility model that could end the redshirt system, allowing athletes five years to compete starting at high school graduation or age 19. Preliminary discussions took place this week, with further meetings scheduled for May 22.
Key points
- NCAA exploring age-based eligibility model
- Proposal could end the redshirt system
- Athletes would have five years to compete
- Discussions held this week with further meetings planned
- Changes may impact roster management for college programs
Mentioned in this story
NCAACharlie Baker
Notre Dame
The NCAA is exploring a fundamental shift in how it handles athletic eligibility, and it could ultimately lead to the end of the redshirt era.
Pete Thamel of ESPN is reporting that NCAA Division I leaders are held preliminary discussions this week on an age-based eligibility model that would grant athletes five years to compete, beginning either when they graduate high school or the day they turn 19-years old, whichever comes first. The approach would eliminate the traditional redshirt system and create a uniform eligibility calendar across all sports.
NCAA president Charlie Baker was scheduled to join Wednesday's Division I cabinet call to discuss the concept. No vote was taken, as expected, but the conversation represents fresh ideas being thrown around and it is a key step in a formal proposal later in the spring. Pete reports the next meeting will take place on May 22 to discuss the topic further.
For Notre Dame, and other high-profile programs, the change could streamline roster timelines and reduce strategic redshirt decisions. This would also tighten eligibility windows for late bloomers and graduate transfers.
The NCAA's initial feedback sessions over the next few months will determine whether the age-based plan advances to the next level. The key wil be to iron out all the details to make sure whatever resolution is reached, is fair to all parties involved and that all potential exceptions are addressed beforehand.
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Q&A
What is the NCAA's proposed age-based eligibility model?
The proposed model would allow athletes five years to compete, starting from high school graduation or when they turn 19, eliminating the traditional redshirt system.
When will the NCAA discuss the age-based eligibility proposal again?
The NCAA plans to hold its next meeting on May 22 to further discuss the age-based eligibility proposal.
How could the NCAA's eligibility changes affect college sports programs?
The changes could streamline roster timelines for programs like Notre Dame and reduce the need for strategic redshirt decisions, impacting late bloomers and graduate transfers.
