Am I Really Out of Eligibility, or Do I Still Have Options to Compete?

If your administration tells you that you’re not eligible, you may still have options available - regardless of what your school says. Changes in NCAA eligibility rules, new waiver options, and shifting standards following recent litigation have made the process more complex, especially for athletes who played at junior colleges, internationally, or who faced medical or hardship interruptions.

Recent proposals and temporary waivers introduced for 2025 may mean athletes have a chance to claim an extra year if they meet enrollment and academic criteria. However, appeals and applications for waivers must be filed promptly and accurately, as actions taken too late often rule out relief.

For student-athletes and their families, it’s essential that you advocate for yourselves. Understand that schools’ priorities lie with themselves and their own compliance. That is not always going to align with your best interests. This, along with so much of the upheaval in college sports, underscores the need for dedicated legal counsel backing your search for eligibility resolution.

In one notable recent case, a student-athlete was informed, based on an internal recommendation, that she had exhausted eligibility. Our team at Christine Brown & Partners identified errors in the assessment, and the NCAA reversed the decision, restoring her ability to compete. Mistakes like these persist, and athletes without specialized advocacy risk losing out, especially when critical deadlines pass.

Christine Brown & Partners specializes in fighting for athletes facing eligibility issues, from mistaken eligibility claims to difficult appeals and NCAA waivers. We’ve worked with athletes across all levels and backgrounds, offering expert guidance and relentless support.

If you’re questioning your eligibility or have been told your career is over, don’t accept that answer without a second opinion. Contact us today to explore your options and ensure your rights and future are protected.