CHAMPAIGN, ILL.– The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics announced today it has committed to providing now-permissible financial support to student-athletes for academic progress following the U.S. Supreme Court's 2021 ruling in Alston v. NCAA.
In Alston, the Supreme Court concluded that NCAA rules restricting education-related benefits to Division I basketball and bowl subdivision football student-athletes were in violation of federal antitrust law. These benefits can take many forms, including, said the Court, cash-based academic incentives. The Court determined that institutions can distribute up to $5,980 per student-athlete, per year for academic achievement. The Court deferred to the institutions themselves, or their respective conferences, to determine if and how to administer these newly available benefits.
At Illinois, the Alston awards program will take effect for the 2022-23 academic year, with the maximum award of $5,980 made available annually to Fighting Illini student-athletes in all 21 varsity sports.
Fighting Illini fans who want to provide financial support toward these academic incentives for Illinois student-athletes can visit jointheifund.com.
Fighting Illini coaches say …
"This decision is concrete evidence of the student-athlete-centered values and forward progress mindset embodied by Illinois Athletics," said soccer coach Janet Rayfield. "Illinois soccer athletes will benefit greatly as we seize this newest opportunity to tangibly acknowledge and reward the efforts and dedication of our student-athletes. It is an incredible statement of value, importance and support to all future and current Illinois soccer players. We are grateful to be part of this institution and department."
"This is a great opportunity to continue to help support our team and all of the student-athletes here at Illinois," said volleyball coach Chris Tamas. "Our athletic department leadership in this space has been incredible. Our players will benefit from this academic-based rewards program and it will continue to enhance our program and the concept of excellence both on the court and in the classroom. We are truly thankful for all of the people that have made this happen."
"In my introductory press conference, I spoke about the University of Illinois as a place that has it all, and since arriving on campus it has been incredible to operate on a daily basis in an environment that provides every opportunity for excellence," said women's basketball coach Shauna Green. "We are a world-class educational institution, and the investment in the Illini athletics programs is second-to-none. That combination provides a unique opportunity for student-athletes. This announcement further solidifies our commitment to providing the best student-athlete experience in the country, and provides yet another incredible advantage for all current and future Illini to excel on the court and in the classroom."
"Since coming here to Illinois, one constant has been the support and commitment from our administration to our student-athletes," said football coach Bret Bielema. "This is another glowing example how Illinois will maximize the opportunities and benefits available to current and future Illini in all sports."
"As the college athletics landscape continues to change and modernize, this is another exciting way we can support our student-athletes," said men's basketball coach Brad Underwood. "I am pleased that we are committing the resources to make this academic achievement reward available throughout our roster. It takes time, dedication, and discipline to succeed in the classroom. That is true for every player in the program, from an All-American to a starter to a walk-on. They all contribute to the team's success and have earned the opportunity to be acknowledged for their efforts."
