The NCAA mandates that the control and conduct of the Georgia Southern Athletics program is the responsibility of Georgia Southern University. This responsibility extends to members of Georgia Southern booster organizations and alumni clubs, in addition to fans. This page is intended to provide basic information regarding NCAA rules that apply to fans, alumnus, friends of Georgia Southern, and all representatives of our athletics interests. Please refer to this page to help you avoid inadvertent involvement in a violation of NCAA legislation.
It is important to understand the National Collegiate Athletic Association, Sun Belt Conference and University rules by which we are governed. As a member of the NCAA and Sun Belt, we are not only responsible for the actions of our coaches, staff and student-athletes but also our fans. Regardless of the intentions, any violation of these rules can result in serious consequences for our program and those associated with it. Thank you in advance for your cooperation while we continue our journey.
What is a Booster/ Representative of Athletics Interests
Due to NCAA major infractions cases across the country, the term “booster” has become prevalent. These cases are costly for the student– athletes as well as the athletics programs. The Georgia Southern Compliance Office has the responsibility of educating and monitoring those individuals who fall under the definition of “booster.” We hope to prevent these issues and protect the student– athletes and our great university.
According to the NCAA, there are several ways to trigger “booster” status. Listed below are some determining factors in identifying boosters.
- Made financial contributions to the athletics department or booster organization
- Having a guardianship role over a student– athlete
- Hold or have ever held season tickets
- Join or participate in Georgia Southern’s various Athletics Department booster groups
- Promote Georgia Southern Athletics in any way
Non-Permissible BenefitsStudent-athletes may not receive any extra benefit. The term “extra benefit” refers to any special arrangement by an institutional employee, booster, or representative of the institution’s athletics interests to provide the student-athlete or his or her family members or friends with a benefit not expressly authorized by NCAA legislation.
Employees, booster, or representatives of the institutions athletics interests may not provide student– athletes with extra benefits or services, including, but not limited to:
- A loan of money;
- An automobile or the use of an automobile;
- Transportation;
- Signing or co-signing a note with an outside agency to arrange a loan.
In order to protect our student-athletes eligibility and keep our University from being penalized please refrain from providing any extra benefit to the athletes.
Receipt of a benefit by student-athletes, their family members or friends is not a violation of NCAA rules if it is demonstrated that the same benefit is generally available to Georgia Southern students and their family members or friends.
Georgia Southern University Athletics Compliance Office Cone Hall, 1006
2254 Southern Drive
Statesboro, GA 30458
