Welcome to the 51st edition of The Student Athlete, your digital source for the latest and most impactful stories in the life of student-athletes.
This week we dive into:
???? Budget vs Performance: The Money Gap in College Sports
Power Five schools spend over $180 million on athletics while Group of Five budgets often sit below $40 million. We break down how this disparity shapes recruiting, NIL deals, and playoff appearances, and what it really means for student-athletes.
???? How Paying College Athletes Can Transform Their Health
With new direct-pay rules in place, athletes can finally afford real nutrition. We unpack the link between food security, recovery, and elite performance, and why this change goes beyond just money in the bank.
????♂️ Coach Spotlight: Matt Sparks (Notre Dame Track & Field)
From ACC titles to NCAA champions, Sparks has built one of the nation’s top distance programs through consistency, development, and a culture of academic and athletic excellence.