Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's Executive Order Transforms College Athletics Landscape

7/25/2025

50 11

Summary

Trump Reshapes Athletics

In a bold move, President Trump signed an executive order on July 24, 2025, reshaping college athletics. The order prohibits third-party pay-for-play payments but permits endorsement deals, aiming to safeguard scholarships for women's and non-revenue sports. It also calls for federal agencies to clarify collegiate athletes' status, striving for national standards amidst the confusion of NIL regulations.

Summary

Wisconsin Empowers Athletes

Wisconsin has taken a groundbreaking step by implementing a new NIL policy, empowering high school athletes to earn from their name, image, and likeness while preserving their amateur status. In a parallel move, Penn State has unveiled ROAR+, a subscription platform that deepens the bond between fans and student-athletes through exclusive content and NIL opportunities, fostering a vibrant community.

History

Historical Context

Title IX was enacted in 1972, prohibiting sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs, which significantly increased female participation in sports. By 1980, female college enrollment rose by 50%. Recent executive orders aim to enhance this legacy by ensuring scholarships for women's sports while addressing the complexities of name, image, and likeness regulations, reflecting ongoing efforts for equity in college athletics.

1 of 3

Trump Reshapes Athletics

In a bold move, President Trump signed an executive order on July 24, 2025, reshaping college athletics. The order prohibits third-party pay-for-play payments but permits endorsement deals, aiming to safeguard scholarships for women's and non-revenue sports. It also calls for federal agencies to clarify collegiate athletes' status, striving for national standards amidst the confusion of NIL regulations.

1 / 3