If You Thought Being A Big-Time College Athlete Was A Good Deal, You Need To See These Numbers
As a confirmed theater nerd, I always assumed that the athletes at big-time sports colleges lived charmed existences. After all, they're talented, they're popular, and thousands of people turn out every week to watch them play. What could be bad about that? It never occurred to me that, in addition to classes, they have to work 40-60 hours a week in what amounts to a second full-time job — for no pay. Sure, they have scholarships, but they still have out-of-pocket expenses and no time for a job that earns them a real income. For every one that goes pro and signs the big contract, at least 50 more won't, and those who don't will never see a penny of the millions of dollars they generated for their schools in ticket sales, merchandise, TV licensing, video game appearances, and more.
07.17.14