Murray State University Athletics
Current Student-Athletes - Extra Benefits, Gifts or Services
An extra benefit is any special arrangement by an institutional employee or a representative of the institution’s athletics interests to provide a student-athlete or the student-athlete’s relative or friend a benefit not expressly authorized by NCAA legislation.
Receipt of a benefit by student-athletes or their relatives or friends is not a violation of NCAA legislation if it is demonstrated that the same benefit is generally available to the institution’s students or their relatives or friends or to a particular segment of the student body (e.g., foreign students, minority students) determined on a basis unrelated to athletics ability.
Examples of Impermissible Extra Benefits:
- The use of an automobile
- Giving a loan or helping to secure a loan
- Discounts on services, like dry cleaning or car repair
- Discounts on purchases, such as clothing or airline tickets
- The use of a cell phone or phone card
- Receipt of services from businesses, like movie tickets or dinner
Examples of Permissible Benefits Murray State May Provide:
- Athletics scholarships
- Appropriate equipment for practice and competition
- Travel expenses for competition
- Complimentary admissions to their contests for family and friends
- Awards to recognize their participation and achievement
- Medical treatment
- Academic support services
Due to the complexity of what may and may not be considered an extra benefit, it is always best to contact your coach or the Athletics Compliance Office to ensure you are not accepting anything that jeopordizes your eligibility.
"Occasional Meals"
The NCAA does permit the institution, and in some cases boosters, to provide student-athletes meals over and above what is normally permitted to provide on an occasional basis. These "occasional meals" are subject to certain restrictions and must be approved by the Athletics Compliance Office in advance of the meal. A team might use an occasional meal to have a holiday party or to celebrate a team member's birthday.
