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College athletes are just steps away from being allowed to wager on professional sports. The Division I Administrative Committee adopted the proposal last week.
Divisions II and III are expected to hold votes later this month. If both follow Division I, student-athletes would be able to start betting on sports on Nov. 1.
The new proposal affects Michigan, because student-athletes at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and smaller institutions would be permitted to download apps and place wagers.
University of Michigan already preparing for change
The University of Michigan has 29 sports and more than 900 student-athletes. PlayMichigan reached out to David Ablauf, senior associate athletic director for football external operations.
We specifically asked Ablauf if the university would allow such betting, and what kind of protocols would be in place should the rule be adopted. He indicated to PlayMichigan that the university is already preparing for the eventuality.
“Our student-athletes have been made aware of the proposed change. Our compliance office will be further educating them as it draws closer to the Nov. 1 start date.”
Ablauf did not comment on specifics of the potential new betting rule. PlayMichigan also reached out to Michigan State University but did not receive an immediate response.
Under the proposal, student-athletes would still not be allowed to bet on college sports.
Why the NCAA is loosening restrictions
In the press release, the Division I Board of Directors emphasized that the rule change is not an endorsement of sports wagering.
According to Josh Whitman, athletics director at Illinois and chair of the committee, the change was meant to help student-athletes “better align with their campus peers.”
The release also details several initiatives the NCAA has spearheaded to educate and provide resources for student-athletes. Dr. Deena Casiero, NCAA chief medical officer, spoke about the challenges of abstinence.
“Abstinence-only approaches to social challenges for college-aged individuals are often not as successful as approaches that focus on education about risks and open dialogue.
“The NCAA will continue to collaborate with schools to help them provide student-athletes with meaningful education and other resources for student-athletes who choose to participate in betting on professional sports.
“This harm reduction approach gives schools an opportunity to help student-athletes make educated decisions, prevent risky behavior, and seek support without fear of impacting their eligibility.”
